Worlds Collide is a podcast where I talk to people living abroad

>> Viktoria: Hi, listeners. Welcome to a new episode of Worlds Collide, the podcast where I talk to people who moved abroad or live abroad for a long time, for a short time, or even if they just returned home. So my guests tell me about their experiences. before we start, so I have like three points I want to get to. So. 1st. 1st things first, as always. if you like the show and if you are a frequent listener, why don't you give me a five star rating wherever you listen to the podcast? And even, I mean, if you would, that would be so nice. If you have like a minute or two, then you could even write a nice sentence of why you like this podcast on Apple Podcast. I would love that. I would definitely love that. And if you haven't done it already, push the follow button in the corner of your app so you will be always notified when there is a new episode dropping and you can listen to it right away. That was that.

My guest is Kevin, and he lives currently in Thailand

Now, talking about this episode, my guest is Kevin, and he lives currently in Thailand. This is his home for now. I am super excited to have this because it would be the first episode that we have on this podcast that is about Thailand. But Kevin, he is super crazy. He lived in so many countries when he was growing up. Oh, my God. And we talk about this a little bit in our conversation as well. Oh, and I wanted to give you a, quick heads up that the first five minutes of the audio are not that great. But I promise you it will be a lot better. But I apologize for that. And I also want to tell you about this social platform that he has built especially for expats. It is called host. And there you can find solutions to expat problems. Wow, how great. So check it out. It's called host global Framer website. Or there is a link to it in the show notes. So check it out. And here is now our conversation. Here is Kevin. Hi, Kevin. How are you today?

>> Kevin: Hi. I'm very good, Victoria. How are you?

>> Viktoria: I'm good too. Thanks for being on my podcast.

>> Kevin: Thanks for having me.

>> Viktoria: Yeah.

You're currently on a remote island away from the mainland

So, where are you right now?

>> Kevin: So I'm currently in Thailand. I've been in Thailand for about, a bit more than six years now. So, yeah, I'm currently on a remote island.

>> Viktoria: Okay. What does it mean? Remote island?

>> Kevin: So when I say remote, it's not completely remote, but it's, I would say, away from the mainland. there's no airport that you can access the island through. So you have to take a ferry to get out to go to the mainland.

>> Viktoria: Oh, okay. So six months. Where have you been? Where did you move from?

>> Kevin: So, I was actually in Bangkok. So I lived in Bangkok for about six years, and then, recently. I mean, my partner has always been living here for a couple of years now. So, yeah, we were doing a long distance relationship, and then, yeah, I had the occasion to be able to move to the island, so I did that about a year ago.

>> Victoria: How is it so far?

>> Kevin: It's great. it's actually familiar because I used to come visit my partner quite often, so I'm quite familiar with the island. I already have some friends here, so it's just a matter of moving.

>> Victoria: Nice.

So where are you from originally and what brought you to Thailand

Okay. And so what brought you to Thailand in the first place?

>> Kevin: So, in terms of Thailand, I actually had, a chance to do an internship when I was a student. I actually studied hotel management, and we had to do a semester abroad, ah, to have a real life experience. so I actually came to Thailand to do my second internship in Bangkok. And then once, I graduated, they invited me back for a full time offer. So that's how I. That's, I guess, how my Thailand journey started.

>> Victoria: Okay, and when was that?

>> Kevin: That was back in 2015.

>> Victoria: And before that, where were you?

>> Kevin: So before that? when I was. While I was studying, I was actually in Switzerland. but in terms of Thailand, it's a little bit complicated because I actually lived here for two years first, and then I left for three years, and.

>> Victoria: I came back, like, right before COVID Okay, so. But where are you from originally?

>> Kevin: Oh, sorry. Yeah. So I'm actually from South Korea.

>> Victoria: Okay.

>> Kevin: Yeah.

>> Victoria: Oh, but so you have, like, almost no accent. Where did you learn English so. Well?

>> Kevin: so I lived in a couple of places. I actually lived in about, my story is kind of unique. I lived in about 414 countries so far. 14, yeah.

>> Victoria: You moved quiet a lot in your life? Yes, yes.

>> Kevin: So I. When I was, Well, before I was born, actually, we were already abroad. And then, I was actually. My mom just flew to Korea just to have me, and then we, went right back to where we were. And since then, I've been living abroad, pretty much all my life.

All right, so what were all the countries that you lived in

>> Victoria: All right, so what were all the countries that you lived in?

>> Kevin: you want me to list them or.

>> Victoria: Yeah, sure. Why not?

>> Kevin: Sure. so I started off in Hong Kong, then went, to Australia, so England, and then, Brazil, Dubai. went back to Korea for a little bit, and then after that, went to the Philippines, the US. and then I went to school in Switzerland, and then after that, Portugal, Thailand, and then Laos, Vietnam, and the, Maldives.

>> Victoria: Oh, wow. And what was the longest you've been at one place?

>> Kevin: Actually, it's been Thailand now.

>> Victoria: Thailand? Oh, yeah, sure. Because it's been six years or seven years, I guess, now if you're at the mall.

>> Kevin: Yeah, yeah.

>> Victoria: Ah, that is quite a while. And do you remember, from moving around as little child?

>> Kevin: So I have vague memories from when I was in, Australia, but before then, I don't, I don't. But I would say most of the time I do have some kind of memory.

Recently Thailand has been feeling like home for you

>> Victoria: Okay. And so is there, like, then a place where you say, like you feel the most at home? Is it Thailand then?

>> Kevin: Yeah. So that's a good question. That has always been a struggle for me, but lately I would say that Thailand has been feeling like home. Yeah. Something about it. I feel very comfortable here.

>> Victoria: So was it when you moved there, did you already know right away? Oh, yeah. I want to stay here a little bit longer, actually.

>> Kevin: That's, that's funny you mentioned that, because the first six months, I struggled a little bit to adjust to the culture and. No, even though. Even though I had lived in different places before, ah, some reason I struggled a little bit in the beginning. But, after I finished my studies and I came back, that's when I really started to enjoy it. And I really started to feel like, okay, this is kind of. It feels like home, and I really like it here.

>> Victoria: So you struggled a little bit in the beginning because you were there for six months and then you wanted to leave, or.

>> Kevin: Yeah, so I had to leave because, my internship was ending and I had to finish my studies. So, then I left. And then, once I graduated, I was offered a job at the same place, and then I came back and that's when I really started to like it.

You applied for an internship in Thailand and now you're working remotely

>> Victoria: Okay. And so then in Switzerland, this is where you applied for the internship. Was there a reason you wanted to apply for Thailand, or was it just for the internship? That sounded like the right fit for you? Was it more like, I want to try something in Thailand, or was it more like, oh, this job sounds really good?

>> Kevin: I would say it's more the latter because, I actually interviewed with the entire company and they obviously have different properties all around the world. And, so I had interviews with a couple of regions and a couple of countries, and Thailand seemed to be the most, appropriate for me at the time. So I decided to go with,

>> Victoria: So, well, you know, you never know where the future brings you, right? I mean, probably you did not expect that you're gonna stay there for so long.

>> Kevin: Absolutely not. It's quite a common story you hear from expats here is that they thought they'll be here just for six months or just for a few months, just on holidays. And then you hear them stay here for years and never want to leave.

>> Victoria: Right, right. You know, but it was funny because I thought, like, this would be like a story. I thought, I thought like, you were from the United States and you moved to Korea. So, and I was thinking the whole time, I wish I would have a story about Thailand, you know, because it's like always, people always kind of assume you live by the beach when you move there, you just drink out of a coconut or, you retire there and you never have to do anything again for the rest of your life. But, so tell me, so what is life like in there in Thailand?

>> Kevin: So life is pretty. Thank you for mentioning that. Actually, it's pretty glamorized sometimes. Like, yeah, like you said, sitting by the beach drinking a, coconut, depending on where you live, that's not always the case.

>> Victoria: Yeah, I guess so.

>> Kevin: If you're in Bangkok, obviously, it's just like any other major city. Yeah. A lot of, offices and you're just. Yeah, it's the same thing, like working a lot, you know, having a great social circle, just city life. And on the contrary, I'm on an island right now and it looks very different where, most people are here are working remotely. So people working in cafes, then they're maybe going for a sunset later after work, meeting up with friends at the beach. And on weekends, it's mostly like, yeah, spending time in nature with friends, going on hikes and. Yeah, sometimes drinking, coconuts by the beach.

>> Victoria: Right. But, so do you still work in the hotel industry?

>> Kevin: No. So I left the hotel industry, back about a year ago, and right now I changed my career. So I'm a software engineer right now, working.

>> Victoria: Okay, so this is why you can work remote.

>> Kevin: That's correct.

>> Victoria: Ah. okay, so, I mean, I also would have been possible to get a job in a nice hotel, like, on a remote island because I'm sure there are plenty like that.

>> Kevin: Absolutely. The only thing with Thailand is it's a little bit challenging because they only hire senior level positions, in hotels for foreigners mostly, it's local, so it's a little bit more challenging to get a job like that unless you're in Bangkok.

>> Victoria: Unless you're in Bangkok.

How was settling in back in Bangkok after you finished in Switzerland

Okay. So how was it for you then settling in in the beginning? Let's talk about how was it settling in back in Bangkok, like, when you came after you finished in Switzerland?

>> Kevin: it was actually pretty smooth because luckily I had an experience here already. So it was, smooth because I knew people already that were living in Bangkok. I already had some friends. I also had previously worked with some of the colleagues that I continued working with after Switzerland. So the transition to, to a full time job was much smoother. I would say the only challenging aspect in the beginning was when I came back, it was actually a managerial role. So, some of the people that I'd worked for was actually, let's say, in the same level, in terms of In the hierarchy. In the hierarchy.

>> Victoria: Okay.

>> Kevin: And there was a little bit of challenge there, when it came to, obviously working with people that you had already worked with, and they maybe thought that, oh, we're in the same level, but now you're on top of me. So there was a little bit of issues there. But, you know, it was a great challenge and I really, really enjoyed it. And, yeah, so it was pretty smooth.

Did you have a place to live right away? Yes. Right. So, uh, before I actually came to Switzerland,

>> Victoria: Did you have a place to live right away?

>> Kevin: Yes. So, before I actually came to Switzerland, to Thailand, I actually started, looking for places already. And, in the very beginning, though, they gave me some, breathing room. They actually allowed me to stay at the hotel for about a month.

>> Victoria: Okay, that's great. That's nice.

>> Kevin: Yeah. So they gave me a room, and then, once I found a place, I moved out.

>> Victoria: Nice. Yeah. That's great. That's, like, helpful. Right. So, like, no pressure.

Making friends in Bangkok started with becoming friends with coworkers

So how did you then m make friends? Were you friends with your coworkers?

>> Kevin: Yes. So, for me, it was more, it started off as becoming friends with coworkers, and then it just compounded from there. Co worker introduced to someone that they know, and then you become friends with them, and then they introduce someone that they know. And then, yeah, you start to know everybody, the city, because Bangkok is, there's so many expats, and everyone pretty much knows each other, even though it's a big city. And, yeah, that was a cool thing. There's a very, big yet small community in Bangkok, as ironic as that sounds. so everyone knows each other, and it's very easy to make friends.

Every time I travel, everyone automatically associates me to be a local

>> Victoria: Okay. And so, I mean, I imagine for Bangkok, it's probably English. it's fine to get by, but what about where you are now.

>> Kevin: So, here. I mean, actually, in koh Phangan, which is actually an island, I'm not sure if you're familiar with the full moon party.

>> Victoria: Yes. I mean, I've never been, but it's famous.

>> Kevin: So basically, that's, where I'm at. And because of the full moon party, it's a very touristy island, so a lot of people are used to foreigners. and so everyone speaks English. It's not a problem.

>> Victoria: Yeah. And so what do they assume usually when they see you, where you are from? I'm curious.

>> Kevin: That's a great question. Every time I travel, not only in Thailand, but in the region, everyone, for some reason, automatically associates me to be a local. So it seems like I blend in.

>> Victoria: Yeah.

>> Kevin: Which can be a good thing, in my opinion. and, yeah, so it's the same thing here in Thailand. and on this island, everyone naturally thinks I'm Thai. So they m speak to me in Thai first, and then, and then when I told them that I'm Korean. Yeah, exactly. Then they go, oh, okay, sorry.

>> Victoria: Yeah.

>> Kevin: You don't see a lot of, let's say, Asians that are foreigners living in Thailand, especially in an island like this. So I think that's the reason why they assume that I'm Thai.

>> Victoria: Right, right. And, so do you speak Thai by now?

>> Kevin: I don't speak it fluently, unfortunately. I wish I did. but I do speak some basic Thai to get around and to, you know, to have a basic conversation, let's say.

>> Victoria: Okay, how different is it from Korean? Like, if I think of, if I think of, like, languages, m in Europe, for example, like, Dutch and German are very similar. They have, like, some of the same words. Is that the same case for Thai and Korean?

>> Kevin: Actually, no. For, Korean and Thai, it's very, very different.

>> Victoria: Uh-huh.

>> Kevin: There are maybe, I'm aware of maybe one or two words that are the same. I think two numbers are the same or sound similar. But other than that, it's a very, very different language. It's very, very complex as well because it's a toned language. So depending on your tone, the same word can mean something different entirely, just by the tonation, which we don't have in Korean.

>> Victoria: I see.

Learning Thai was mostly by communicating with colleagues, who are mostly Thai

Okay. All right. So it's for you. You also pretty much had to, like, learn from scratch. It was not like, oh, yeah, this sounds familiar or something.

>> Kevin: Yes, exactly. It's completely different. So, yeah, it was, it's easier to, I think, pick up words, but when it comes to formulating a proper sentence and really getting deeper into the language, you have to really learn.

>> Victoria: Okay, how did you. How did you learn it?

>> Kevin: It was mostly by communicating with, my team. So my colleagues, who are mostly Thai.

>> Victoria: Okay.

>> Kevin: So, obviously, they're, like, they're not native English speakers, so they don't speak English at a very high level. So in order to facilitate and to communicate well, we had to, obviously learn a bit of Thai. It's always helpful. So I think that's pretty much how I picked it up. I would ask them questions, and I would ask them what this means. or if there's a word that they. That I could use to make them understand better, I would use that. So, yeah, that's pretty much how I learned.

>> Victoria: I imagine, like, when you are kind of, like, kind of their boss for that level, that must be a challenge not to be able to communicate 100% with them.

>> Kevin: yes, absolutely. But you also have the cultural differences, and then you also have, a lot of. If you add stress and if you add pressure to it, especially hotels, it can be very high paced. So, there's a lot of layers of complexity there, but, yes, definitely language is a big factor.

>> Victoria: Yeah. When you. Because you live at so many places, do you go back, visit, I don't know, your family somewhere, or do you go back, I don't know, home somewhere or.

>> Kevin: Yeah. So, my my parents are actually my whole family. They're actually back in Korea. I'm the only one still abroad, let's say. so once a year, I go back home.

>> Victoria: Okay. Right. And then. And then how does it feel for you to go there? Is it. Because it must be, like, really familiar.

>> Kevin: Yeah. So, every time I go back home, I mean, by now, it's. It's more or less familiar, let's say. even though I lived in different countries, I did have to live in Korea for three years.

>> Victoria: that sounds. It sounds like I had to live in Korea for three years.

>> Kevin: That's not what I meant.

>> Kevin: Yeah, so I had to. I actually lived, in Korea for a year. M in between my living in different countries, there was a point where I went back for a year when I was very young. and then two years, I had to actually serve in the military, because every abled male has to serve in the military. So that was, that was where I had my reverse culture shock. That's where I sort of had a chance to get more familiar with the environment and my own country. So that helped. And now it's more or less familiar.

>> Victoria: Okay, and what about, like, what about. Because, like, because. I don't know. So usually I have, like, my questions, and they're always, like, kind of suited for somebody who lived all their life in one place, and then they moved to another place, but, like, so.

There was definitely a culture shock when you first went to Thailand

So how was it for you then, like, culture shock wise, when you moved to Bangkok? Because you weren't. I don't know. So how was it for you?

>> Kevin: Yeah, Thailand was very unique. there was definitely a culture shock element, because I would say most of the countries that I lived in were quite westernized. And Thailand, back in 2015, it was, I guess, just starting. Well, it was still quite westernized, but it wasn't as westernized as it is today. So, there was still a lot of local elements to it. So there was definitely a culture shock because, I wasn't so familiar with Southeast Asia before then. So it was a complete new culture. The people obviously had different norms. Yeah, it was challenging, let's say, in the beginning. Maybe that's perhaps why I struggled in the beginning. Now, I'm used to it, so.

>> Victoria: Yeah, but was it at that time when they still had, like, a lockdown in the evenings? Because I remember there was something going on with the military that, like, people were, like, closed or, like, they were, like, were not allowed to leave their homes after a certain time. Was it when you were there as well?

>> Kevin: Yes, that's a good point. so actually, I went there, like, maybe about six months or a year after that happened. So after the, there was actually a coup. Ah, a military coup.

>> Victoria: That's crazy.

>> Kevin: Yeah. So once that was done and the military took over, I, think it was about six months to a year after that that I went to Thailand. So everything was fine. After that.

>> Victoria: When I was there, was there, like, still a weird feeling from that left.

>> Kevin: Over at that time, there definitely was, a little coldness in the air, in certain places, I would say, and then to elevate that on top. when I was there as, ah, a student, when I first went there in Bangkok, there was actually a bombing, unfortunately, about a, couple of train stations away from where I was working. And, I'm not sure if it went all the way to, to the US, but there was a big bombing, which happened, unfortunately, a lot of people were injured, but, yeah, there was still a lot of things, like that going on.

>> Victoria: Yeah, I mean, there are. At that time, there were so many bombings, I feel, in Europe as well, so it might mix them up.

>> Kevin: Yes, it was very, yeah, so you had the coup happen a year ago and then you had that happen. So there was a lot of uncertainty a little bit as well. So, people are a bit scared, but in general though, people seem to just live their life.

>> Victoria: Yeah. How is Thailand different when you live there versus people who go there on vacation? Because like, you hear all these crazy stories from the people who go there and what they see and what they.

>> Kevin: Experience and yes, I think tourists, you know, they, they work pretty hard, I'm sure, and, you know, they got some holidays, so they came and they want to just, you know, release their stress. So to a certain extent I understand. you know, let's say what they do. But when you're a local, it's, it's very, very different because, yeah, you just do completely different things. tourists, obviously, like you said, like we mentioned earlier, it's mostly the beach, you know, drinking a coconut.

>> Victoria: Yeah.

>> Kevin: just, yeah, just having thai food, maybe going to parties. But as an expat, occasionally you would do that, but for the most part, I think it's just more about, it's more relaxed, I would say. you mostly focus on doing things with friends just like any other place that you are in the world.

>> Kevin: It's mostly about just creating a sense of community. there's also, I've noticed that expats are also a lot more open to discover very, more, very much local places, whereas tourists would just go to very touristy areas, I would say.

>> Victoria: Yeah, I mean, I have not thought of going to Thailand for such a long time, but it was always like on top of my list on like, places to go. And I remember when I was a student and like, a lot of the other people I studied with, they always went and then they came back with those, whatever, those stupid stories. And I was like, no, I don't even like poor girls. And so, I mean, so I think the tourists are always a little bit, ah, how do you say this? they take advantage of the situation.

>> Kevin: Yes, that definitely happens. And there's unfortunately not all tourists, of course, but there's also some reckless behavior, which is very sad to see. But in one point, I understand they want to de stress and I guess just try to enjoy themselves. But yeah, it's also important to respect.

>> Victoria: The local culture, where you understand where you are exactly. When you moved to the remote island, how was it then different for you from moving to a big city to a small island?

>> Kevin: I was actually, well, it wasn't too much of a hard transition because, I had visited the island prior many, times because, my partner was living here. So, I was quite familiar with it also before, I moved back to Thailand, before COVID I actually worked on another island in Vietnam. So that's why I live in Vietnam.

>> Victoria: Okay.

>> Kevin: and that island was a lot more underdeveloped, so I was actually okay with the transition. It was actually very, very smooth.

Is there anything that you really miss from other places where you lived

>> Victoria: Okay. And is there anything that you really miss from the other places where you lived?

>> Kevin: I would say maybe certain luxuries. Like, for example, it's very small things, but, here on the island, the houses are very small. In general, they're meant for, let's say, short term, accommodate short term, like stays. And so, like, for example, the, you know, you don't have the general facilities in the kitchen that you would have. For example, you don't have an oven. You don't have. No, you don't, a proper, let's say, cooking stove. You need to get your own oven. Yeah. so I think those small things is something that I miss.

>> Victoria: Yeah. And so did you get that? I mean, for you, did you just get like, two stovetops or something so you can make your own food?

>> Kevin: So, we think at a stove top, there's an electronic one, here, but it's not, I would say, the best. But, we did get an oven, a small oven, because also my partner and I, we were also thinking about doing some travel, so we didn't really get a lot of things, here, because we don't want to settle here completely, I think. Uh-huh. We do want to explore other places, so, yeah, we didn't get a lot of things, but we got some things.

>> Victoria: Oh, that's funny. I never thought of that. I mean, I know that. What about, like, do you have, like, a regular bathroom? Yeah. Right. Because, like, if you, if it's a small place, maybe it's like on the hallway or something. I don't know.

>> Kevin: Yeah, it's just a, it's. The size is much smaller, but in. Yeah, the bathroom, you don't have as much shelves, let's say. but, you know, you have a shower area and you have, you know, just a sink, but very basic, I would say.

>> Victoria: So it's more like a hotel room kind of size apartment or, like house. Cabin.

>> Kevin: Yeah, it's more like a cabin. Yeah, you could say it's kind of like a hotel room sized, for the most part, of course, there are luxury villas that have two bedrooms, three bedrooms. But, for the most part, people stay in hotel size, let's say, cabins or, houses.

>> Victoria: Interesting. Okay. Yeah. I mean, you're the first one that says, that they miss having a little bit more spacious room.

>> Kevin: yes. that's definitely one of them. Maybe the other thing would be maybe more efficiency when it comes to, you know, just procedures, just going to the bank and getting things done quickly. I think, here there's, there can be a lot of delays or, a lot of unexpected things happening. So obviously, Korea, everything is very, very much direct and.

>> Kevin: It's very quick.

>> Victoria: Uh-huh.

>> Kevin: So that's one thing that I definitely miss as well.

>> Victoria: Okay. So it's always something with the southern countries. I feel like it's like, too much sun, you know?

>> Kevin: Exactly, yeah.

>> Victoria: Any, like, food or, like, and friends and family, I guess you miss this?

>> Kevin: Yeah, absolutely.

>> Victoria: and is there anything that you really like?

>> Kevin: Well, maybe I'll first start with what I really like. I really like the weather. there's sun almost throughout the whole year, except for the rainy season. but generally the weather is great. Obviously, there's no snow here. It's a tropical country, so it's great. I also really like the food. I really like nature, so there's plenty of nature here. Uh-huh. So that's something that I really like about Thailand as well. Also, everything is so accessible, so you can travel from one side of the country to the other very easily, and there's different methods. you can do so at a very affordable price compared to, for example, if you're living in the US or Europe, you know, things can get a bit more expensive. You don't necessarily need to have a car. depending on where you're going, of course, it might be helpful, but it's not a must. Like, for example, in the US, and then, yeah, in Korea, I would say, I don't really have a lot of friends back home. but I would say I mostly miss my family.

>> Victoria: Yeah.

Overall, Thailand is very, very safe, I think

Is there anything that you feel, unsafe? I don't even mean like the thai people, but like animals.

>> Kevin: That's a great question, actually. you'll be surprised at my answer, I think, because, on this island specifically, and maybe perhaps also in Bangkok in general, though, I think on the road, I feel unsafe a little bit. In Bangkok, on the roads, I feel unsafe because it's very chaotic, the traffic's really bad, and you have a lot of motorbikes going around.

>> Victoria: Right.

>> Kevin: So it can sometimes feel very dangerous on, the other side on this island. it's funny, because I'm actually, let's say, a little bit afraid sometimes of foreigners, especially, like, tourists or even expats driving motorbikes here because they drive quite recklessly. and, yeah, sometimes there's a lot of accidents happening, unfortunately, especially when people have been drinking or, don't really aren't so mindful when they drive. So that's something that I'm a little bit afraid of. But in terms of safety for my own, my well being, overall, I feel completely safe.

>> Victoria: Oh, I bet. Because, I mean, I feel they have, like, a reputation of. I mean, there is not even, like, a crime when it comes to traveling. If you think of Southeast Asia, that crime is not, like, on the top of your list kind of thing. So I was not expecting.

>> Kevin: Yeah, definitely.

>> Victoria: I mean. I mean, like, when you're in Bangkok, you're in the big city. So big cities are always, like, different, I guess. They always. There always is crime in Bangkok.

>> Kevin: Yeah, definitely. Certain areas you should avoid, especially as a foreigner, I think. But overall, it's Thailand, and Bangkok is very, very safe.

>> Victoria: Unless you look like you, then you can't go anywhere because everybody thinks you're local.

>> Kevin: That's actually very true. there are definitely benefits of me, looking like a local because people will try not to rip me off, for example. Yeah, it does happen.

>> Victoria: okay.

>> Kevin: so that does happen. So sometimes that happens, too. It happens in taxis, it happens in shops. Sometimes they try to charge you extra, but with me, it almost never happens. Especially I try to also act Thai.

>> Victoria: You act thai and you, like, try to have no accent.

>> Kevin: Exactly. I try to speak Thai without an accent, and sometimes it helps. Sometimes they figure out that I'm a foreigner. But, you know, overall, I think it's on my side.

>> Victoria: Good, good. Yeah, you're lucky. So don't go as a white person. So. Yeah, but still probably, Probably. I mean, for most people who go there for vacation, it still feels cheap when they get ripped off.

>> Kevin: Exactly. And that's the reason why, they take advantage of that, because they know that the foreigners are okay to pay that price because for them, it's very cheap back home. So they use that to their advantage.

>> Victoria: Yeah. What is, the rate? The, currency rate?

>> Kevin: But, yeah, so, I think, I'm not sure exactly. I don't. Maybe, like, €1000 is about maybe 18 to 19,000. Baht.

>> Victoria: That's

>> Kevin: Thai baht. That's sort of what I remember. Yeah.

How much would you pay for a loaf of bread in Thailand

>> Victoria: How much would you pay for a loaf of bread? I mean, I don't know.

>> Kevin: Loaf of bread would be maybe. Yeah, I would say maybe around like 50, 60 baht.

>> Victoria: And what is.

>> Kevin: So it's very cheap.

>> Victoria: How. So how much would that be in euros?

>> Kevin: let's say it should be. It should be about maybe €2, a little bit less.

>> Victoria: Okay. So. But, bread is maybe, like, something. I don't know. Do they even eat, like, bread is not, like, a typical diet right there, is it?

>> Kevin: No, not in the.

>> Victoria: Yeah. So. So let's say, like, how much is some. I don't want it to sound. I don't want to sound too cliche, but. So I don't want to come up with the rise. So how much would be. I don't know. So what is there that we both have equally here? I mean, that people use, for example, how much would be a pineapple?

>> Kevin: A pineapple? Yeah. That's a good one. I would say maybe it will be similar. It will probably be about. Yeah, two, maybe two to €3.

>> Victoria: Okay. So that's not even much different.

>> Kevin: Yeah, not too bad, I would say. I mean, it also depends where you. Where you go, but, yeah, I would say around that. Around that price.

>> Victoria: Hm. Okay.

>> Kevin: Of course, if you go to a local market, it could be a bit cheaper to maybe €1 or a little bit less, but. if you go to a supermarket, it's about two to €3, I would say.

>> Victoria: I feel like this is about the same here. Maybe, like, for one pineapple, maybe, like, between three and $4. Yeah.

>> Kevin: Hm. Okay.

>> Victoria: I thought, like, it would be cheaper in Thailand.

>> Kevin: Yeah. If you go to a local market, definitely. But, I guess I was coding more of a supermarket.

>> Victoria: Right, right. Or, like, But clothes are cheaper, for example, right?

>> Kevin: Yes, definitely. when it comes to. It also depends where you go. If you go to a local market, m. You probably pay maybe, like, three to €4 for, like, a basic t shirt.

>> Victoria: Okay. Okay. So that is cheaper. See? Okay.

A lot of people make comparisons between Thailand and other Western countries

All right. I just wanted to, like, understand, like, how the pricing works, you know? So why everybody says, oh, yeah, it's so cheap in comparison to all the other countries in the west.

>> Kevin: Yeah, I think, a lot of people tend to compare. For example, I, think food is a big one, based m on what I know, like, and also maybe alcohol. They do. I think those two are probably the biggest comparisons that people make. And, determine that Thailand's cheap. Yeah.

So tell me about your, you when you live there and your day to day life

>> Victoria: So tell me about your, you when you live there and your day to day life. So what is it like? Because you get up in the morning and then you do your job, nine to five.

>> Kevin: Luckily my job is, flexible. actually the first thing that I personally do is, I try to get up very early and I usually go to the gym the first thing in the morning.

>> Victoria: Okay.

>> Kevin: and then after that I just, yeah, I work a little bit from maybe, let's say, yeah, around nine to five. Uh-huh and then after that it's usually going for sunset, at a beach. And then, yeah, just doing a lot of cooking, I would say.

>> Victoria: Okay.

>> Kevin: And meal prepping.

>> Victoria: And so what would you, would you say you would like, move somewhere else again?

>> Kevin: You mean within Thailand or just anywhere?

>> Victoria: M. No, like anywhere.

>> Kevin: Absolutely. Actually, my partner and I were actually discussing, I mean, we both, we both wanted to really, experience more of Central and South America. And my partner's from the US, so eventually we might want to, we might think about settling in the US, but, for now we want to, we both want to live in a different place because we've both been in Thailand for quite some time now.

>> Victoria: Okay.

>> Kevin: So we're considering on exploring maybe central or South America.

>> Victoria: Okay, so you were thinking already of like trying something new, but do you have by now thai citizenship?

>> Kevin: No, I do not. So thai citizenship is quite surprisingly difficult to get, but a lot of people don't really get that unless they marry someone, from Thailand.

>> Victoria: Okay, so do you still have like a work visa?

>> Kevin: Yes. So, I had the work visa, recently up, until recently, but it expired. So right now I'm actually on a tourist visa.

>> Victoria: Ah.

>> Kevin: But I will be leaving soon.

>> Victoria: That is like a six month thing. And then you have to cross the border somewhere and then you can come back.

>> Kevin: Exactly, yeah, border run, basically. Yeah. so yeah, so I will do my next one, I think, around, may. And then after that, yeah, we're planning on leaving before summer, so. Yeah.

>> Victoria: Okay. Okay, so you're leaving to South America by summer.

>> Kevin: So we're first going to travel a little bit in the region, and then, we're going to go home for the festive season. I think we'll probably go to the US actually around, December to see my partner's family and spend some time there. And then once that is done, I think maybe next year we're planning on going to Central or South America.

>> Victoria: Oh, okay. So, okay.

So, um, how do you feel of leaving all your stuff behind

So, how do you feel of leaving all your stuff behind?

>> Kevin: that's a great question. I, think there's. It's mixed feelings because there's, one part of me that really enjoys being in one place. But at the same time, I do miss that travel aspect, especially during COVID We were, let's say, stuck here, which I didn't mind, but I, felt the need for a change, because COVID lasted quite some time. So I'm excited to move, on.

>> Victoria: And do you need to do, I don't know. So do you have, like, a lot of stuff that you can take with you or. I mean, you just moved there, like, a year ago. And what about, like, all your belongings?

>> Kevin: Yeah, so, actually, I've downsized quite a bit of my stuff. So either, you know, donated some things or sold some things. We're also probably gonna take some things, well, maybe send some things back to Korea, while we travel. And then, I mean, there's also a way for us to, leave some of our stuff here before we go to central South America because we have some friends in Bangkok and they can, you know, they're willing to keep our stuff.

>> Victoria: Sure. And how long has your partner been in Thailand?

>> Kevin: So she's been here for about five years. Almost five years.

>> Victoria: Okay. Also a while. Do you worry or. I don't know. Do you ever get tired of, like, starting again from the beginning, from scratch, like, when it comes to making friends or, like.

>> Kevin: That's a good question. Not, necessarily. I think it's probably because I've just been doing that pretty much my whole life.

>> Victoria: Yeah, that's why I was asking. Yeah.

>> Kevin: but of course, there's always, you know, even though that has happened, there's a certain element where there are certain things that are uncertain. Let's say when you go to a new country. So there's a little bit of that always that carries with me, but overall, I'm totally okay with it. And, it makes me feel excited, actually.

>> Victoria: And when you say you want to stay at some place for longer, so, like, what does that mean for you?

>> Kevin: Probably a, ah, place where, of course, I feel like I'm at home, where there's a great community. maybe I have a great group of friends there that are also settling a place, maybe that has plenty of nature.

>> Victoria: Of course.

>> Kevin: That's something that I really love. I think that's. Yeah, that's what it would ideally look like.

>> Victoria: Okay. Is like long term for you, like two years or ten years or,

>> Kevin: I would say maybe. Yeah, maybe. Perhaps, like ten years and above.

>> Victoria: Okay. yeah, that's a long term.

>> Kevin: Like staying a long term.

>> Victoria: Yeah. Well, good luck on settling somewhere, finding it.

>> Kevin: Thank you.

>> Victoria: South. Were you thinking of maybe settling if you like it?

>> Kevin: Probably not settling completely. I think I definitely want to travel and spend no, maybe a couple of years in the region. But, I think when it comes to settling, preferably, I would like to settle in Europe because I feel the most comfortable there, I would say. But, of course, also thinking about when I have a family, I think that in terms of education, I think personally, I like, the education in Europe. And specifically maybe the, northern part of Europe, but definitely want to spend a few years in. In the region. Central South America.

>> Victoria: Interesting. I mean, yes, the, Norwegians, I guess, number one in like, school systems. Or wasn't it the Norwegians?

>> Kevin: Yeah, yeah, I think the Norwegians or the Swedish. I'm not sure exactly. I don't remember either which country.

>> Victoria: But, those, they're really right up there. That's right.

>> Kevin: But yeah.

>> Victoria: that's for another discussion.

Victoria: Thanks for sharing your story about traveling to Thailand

So I guess we're coming to an end. So thank you for your time.

>> Kevin: Thanks for having me, and thanks for the opportunity.

>> Victoria: Yeah, no, of course. I'm glad. we had this conversation and you told me about your story. Yeah, that was Kevin's story. And what I learned from talking to Kevin was one that there are many experts in Thailand or in Bangkok. So if you are thinking of going, then it's good to know that you are not the only one. And then, of course, crazy tourists. Some, not all. And then still, it seemed like Kevin still has, like, a normal lifestyle. the big difference is, like, he has really nice beaches and sunsets in the evening. And it seems that it's hard to put down roots when you are moving around so much, growing up. Okay, so. And then later, when we both stopped, recording, but we were. But we kept on talking for a while. And then he mentioned that if you are a foreigner, you will earn better for the same job as a local person. And I thought that was kinda weird. It doesn't sound right for the local people, in my opinion. And then, of course, I have to say sorry for my dumb and silly questions, especially for the bathroom question. What? You are kidding, right? I did. So, yeah, sorry for that. Still, I hope you enjoyed this episode, and I hope you tune in again next week for another episode of worlds collide with me, your host, Victoria. And today I have a special guest. My daughter, Juneau. You want to say hi?

Juneau: Hi

>> Victoria: Yes. All right. I hope you will tune in again next week. Bye.