30 Years in Thailand? Why You’ll Never Run Out of Things to Do 🌴✨

In one of my Reels, I shared the 30–30 rule: work 30 minutes, then move to Thailand for 30 years. 😁

It was meant as a playful punchline, but here’s the thing: Even after three decades in Thailand, you’d still find something new to explore.

Thailand is addictive. It’s not just the beaches (though they are paradise). After years of visiting and living here with my family, I often reflect back on when I first considered moving to Asia — not because I wanted to escape anything, but because I felt drawn to a simpler, warmer, and more intentional way of living. Every visit just confirms that feeling — there’s always something new to discover, yet it somehow feels like coming home.

I’ve experienced life in many corners of the world, but nothing compares to Thailand. The warmth, the smiles, the rhythm of life here — it’s unlike anywhere else I’ve ever been.

Let’s dive into why.

Thailand isn’t called the “Land of Smiles” by accident.

From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted with warmth and genuine kindness — the kind you rarely find anywhere else in the world.

This friendliness makes daily life feel lighter. Need help with directions? Someone will walk you there. Bring your dog to a café? You’ll get water for your pup, too. It’s the kind of environment where you constantly feel welcomed.

And when you’re planning to live somewhere long-term, that makes all the difference.

Thai food is not just something you eat; it’s something you live.

From Bangkok’s bustling night markets to tiny stalls in rural towns, every meal is an adventure. Some of my personal favorites:

• A plate of pad see ew or a classic pad thai from a street vendor that costs less than your morning coffee back home.

• Mango sticky rice that tastes like sunshine.

• Fresh coconuts on a Phuket beach.

And yes — if you ever crave a taste of Europe, you’ll find it in Thailand too. Italian pizza, French bakeries, even a good steak. It’s a little more expensive, but when homesickness hits, those flavors matter.

Eating here isn’t just about flavor. It’s about connection. Food is shared, it’s social, and it’s part of everyday joy. For long-term living, that matters more than you think — meals become memories.

If you’ve ever dreaded the dark, cold winters back home, Thailand feels like freedom.

I grew up with snowy winters and even tried winter sports, but the truth is — I never liked the cold. That’s why the year-round warmth of Thailand feels like freedom to me.

365 days of warmth. Sure, there’s a rainy season, but even then, life doesn’t stop. Flip-flops, light clothes, the ocean breeze — this is daily reality.

This constant sunshine is one of the top reasons expats choose to stay. Because when the weather feels good, life feels easier.

People often imagine Thailand as “beach, beach, and more beach.” But it’s so much more.

I’ve road-tripped across the country with my family, starting from Bangkok, driving along the eastern coast to Rayong, then heading north to Kanchanaburi, and finally down south to Phuket. Each stop was like entering a new world.

Here’s a taste of what 30 years could look like (and why it still wouldn’t be enough):

• North: trekking in Chiang Mai’s mountains, visiting elephant sanctuaries, and exploring temples.

• South: island hopping in Krabi, diving in Koh Tao, or simply watching sunsets in Koh Lanta.

• Central Thailand: the River Kwai bridge in Kanchanaburi, floating markets, and hidden waterfalls.

• East: quieter beaches in Trat and Rayong — perfect for families and long-term stays.

Every corner of Thailand has its own rhythm, and you never run out of new places to explore.

One of the things I love most about Thailand is its balance between fun and peace.

On one hand, you have vibrant festivals like Songkran (the Thai New Year water festival) where the entire country turns into a giant water fight. On the other, you can find yourself in a silent meditation retreat or a yoga class by the sea.

Wellness is part of life here. Thai massages are legendary — and affordable. Spas, detox retreats, and holistic centers are everywhere. For expats, this creates a lifestyle where relaxation and health become daily priorities, not occasional luxuries.

When people think of moving to Asia, healthcare is often their biggest worry. But Thailand turns that concern upside down.

I’ve been treated at Vajthani Hospital in Bangkok, and the level of professionalism and facilities blew me away. Clean, modern, efficient — everything you’d expect in a top European hospital.

Even our dog Daisy received amazing care from a Bangkok vet. And as any pet parent knows, if your dog is safe and healthy, you feel safe too.

Thailand’s healthcare system is one of the main reasons so many retirees and digital nomads choose it as their base.

What’s even more impressive is that hospitals here have dedicated departments that handle international insurance verification — they’re used to working with expats and travelers from all over the world.

That’s why I always recommend getting proper travel or expat insurance before moving abroad or even for longer trips.
My personal favorites are Ekta, International Citizen Insurance, VisitorsCoverage, and SafetyWing — all reliable options for global travelers.

If you’re thinking long term, education is a big deal. Luckily, Thailand has fantastic options for families.

Expats can choose between bilingual local schools and international schools. For example, on Phuket you’ll find the British School Phuket, which is recognized globally.

When we were there, I was impressed at how smoothly families integrated into the school system. Kids adapt quickly, parents feel reassured, and life flows without unnecessary stress.

Let’s be real: prices have risen compared to 20 years ago.

But Thailand is still significantly more affordable than most Western countries.

Here’s a quick comparison of monthly costs for expats (approximate, varies by lifestyle):

• One-bedroom condo in Bangkok: $400–$700/month.

• Street food meal: $2–$4.

• Private school tuition: $6,000–$12,000/year.

• Monthly healthcare insurance: $50–$150.

The flexibility is what makes it great. You can live modestly in a bungalow near the beach or go all-in with a luxury villa and private pool. Either way, life feels comfortable.

The magic of Thailand is that it never gets old. You can spend 30 years here and still discover something new every week.

But more than the activities or destinations, it’s the feeling. The smiles. The pace of life. The warmth in the air. The freedom of not being stuck in the same system you left behind.

For me, Thailand is proof that burnout isn’t the only way. That freedom is real. And that life can be as light, bright, and fulfilling as you choose to make it.

Personally, I’d rather live in a simple bamboo hut surrounded by relaxed, smiling people — wearing two-euro flip-flops from the local market — than in a fancy apartment in the middle of some European city. Because here, no one cares about high fashion or keeping up appearances. The real luxury isn’t material things anymore. It’s happiness. It’s being your own boss. It’s peace of mind.

If you’ve ever dreamed of living differently, Thailand shows you it’s possible.

When you build digital products or create your own online business, you’re not tied to one location. That’s what allowed me to create this lifestyle.

✨ Maybe the 30–30 rule will be your reality too — and you’ll spend 30 years in Thailand, never running out of things to do.

Thailand also offers several visa options for those who want to stay longer than a holiday. Many expats start with a tourist visa and then extend it. Families often choose an education visa (for language schools or kids’ schooling), while retirees can apply for a retirement visa. For entrepreneurs and remote workers, there are also business visas and the newer Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa designed for digital professionals.