CHAPTERS BELOW 👇👇 BEST DEAL ON A VPN: Secure your privacy with Surfshark! Enter coupon code NAKEDGURU for an extra 4 months free at surfshark.deals/NAKEDGURU 🍄 MUSHROOMS: Get Discounted Fruiting Body Mushroom Supplements Thailand & Worldwide Shipping: shorturl.at/zAMqs Use Coupon code: BAMBOO10 00:00 Intro 00:14 Peasants 01:00 Disclaimer 01:15 Begging In Rural Thailand 01:58 How They Look 02:32 Livestock & Land 03:53 First Interaction With Villagers 04:30 Why Are They Happier? The Weather 05:05 Poverty Thailand Vs UK 05:31Homelessness & Hunger 05:40 Second Interaction With Villagers 06:16 Food Provision & The Temple 06:53 Fear & Over Thinking 07:31 They Are Not Thinking 08:20 Community - Children Taking Care Of Parents 08:39 Talking To The Grandmas About Happiness 10:00 What Did They Say? 10:31 They Are Happier Than Me 11:10 Buddhism & Religion 12:50 Community Living Vs West 13:16 Neurosis & Psychological Issues In The West 14:20 Taking Care Of Parents Cycle 15:15 Conclusion
My wife graduated from college in Bkk 55yrs ago, many of her classmates were country students who were sent to Bkk to study, my wife finished up marrying me and moved to Australia. Now we are retired visiting Thailand for months at a time and renewing acquaintances, including those who studied and returned to all parts of Thailand. To visit them, you would think they look as if they havent got a dollar, but then you find they have children who are professionals, living all over the world, they have travelled internationally, but still return to the farm, living the simple life. I envy them, and as you they are much happier than me.
Entitlement breeds resentment. That's the main issue in the West. Everyone feels entitled to become a millionaire and live a luxurious life and anything short of this breeds contempt and resentment.
People are narrow and small minded, they are too occupied in the maze of the ratrace. We are moving to Thailand when our kids turn 18 (in about 6 years). We leave them the house at home or they can come with if they like. To start with 6 months a year, until we turn 50 atleast and then apply for the retirement Visa (in 9 years). We want to find our paradise outside the tourist beaten path aswell. We have been several times to Thailand. We are well travelled and seen quite a lot of the world, but we always are most happy in Thailand. Why just survive and just exist in our home country when you can LIVE be HAPPY in Thailand.
Yes…Thailand is quite a remarkable place…I fear the Western influx will ruin the country and pray the Thai government will protect its culture by expelling bad actors.
@@johncooke61 We live in and are from Norway, why wouldnt you be allowed to leave the UK to live in Thailand in 9 years you think ? Must be a sudden and huge change in politics for British people to lose the ability to move out of the commonwealth. You sound like a negative Nancy if you ask me, you or any other person will never spoil my dreams, so dont worry :)
Hi dude in a hat! They don't have nothing, they have everything. At first I suspected people were acting overly happy to be polite in my presence. I have no less than 10 cameras all over my property and listen in to all the visitors that pop by to visit mom. Food and laughs are always shared even without a farang about 555. I have never seen a happier bunch of hard working folks in my life. I could sit with the grandmas all day!! Even though you're just wearing a hat, your 110% spot on with this video.
Where you are walking is identical to where I live. The local people, my extended Thai family are very kind, generous with their help and time. Where possible I help them and they help me. My thank you to them is most often to share a couple of cold Chang or Leo. 🙏🍺
❤🙏🏼for the super rant!🤣👍🏼My Mum died two week ago 96yrs UK . It is sad, but I feel so free, because now I don’t need to go back anymore. It was so sad to see everything that is happening there. Asia seems the best place in the world right now. Living a simple life is why they are so contented. They have hearts of gold! 💞💞💞💞
I have lived here surin for nearly 22 years now i am an old scouser 73 years young, i would dread going back to the uk, where no one smiles as they pass by, NUFF SAID EY !
In the ten years i have lived here in rural Thailand on a farmie have seen more happiness and than in my previous 70 years in my home country i have no intention of ever leaving this lovely country
On my first trip to Thailand I ate at a family’s home turned restaurant under a small carport,they had a young daughter that was helping/working she couldn’t have been older than 6 they didn’t have much at all . She had an old Barbie doll she played with after helping serve us she had the biggest smile and laughed and played. My daughters are great kids but want for nothing nor do they ask but I told them I never want to hear I’m bored nor frowns in their faces showed her picture and told my story and it really sunk in their head fast forward 13 years my girls are 20-22 and never forgotten that little girl. Not this years trip but the following I’m taking my daughters to Thailand so they can experience and understand why I love going and hopefully able to eat at that families home .
I’ve been to Thailand 30 times and work with Karen (car-wren) refugees and orphans from Burma. I was there to help them but they profoundly helped me. I would much rather live a very simple life in Thailand serving others than enslaved by my possessions in the US that require my constant time and maintenance.
Say.. I saw somewhere -'retired persons cannot volunteer '..I was disappointed... Volunteering is - family's legacy.😊... Hoping Thai government can clarify.. I want to Volunteer when I get back to Thailand ❤🇹🇭 ❤
Hai Ryan..just to share with you,my wife..she's from a javanese kampung..which we call in english village.. She's a padi farmers daughter..l love and appreciate the village (kampung) a hold lot better than living in a city..in Malaysia.. I always tell to people who don't know how to think about facts about money and about survival..when you live in the city..it's all about having money..but back in my wife's kampung..this farmers survive all from what they grow and chickens goats and cows that they rare..l know they live a very simple life but nothing great..and as you said..when from the family members that have left the village and gone out to the city..they send back home money for the parents..like what we are doing now..From the time l married my wife..l only know to go for vacation at my wife's kampung for a holiday..😅
I’ve never left my home country, and I absolutely love rural Thailand from what I have seen on your channel, my soul craves this type of lifestyle. Western mindset is full of arrogance, and ignorance.
As a former farmer, I was happier back then, even though we had so much debt but work at the farm, there are no rush, less pressure. Now, I have to work in the city, rush to work every day, and face a lot of pressure at work. When I have time off, I mostly go back home to see the views and nature. It helps me calm down, just like your vlog, which helps me through rough times. When I watch, it feels like I'm home. Ryan, you are truly lucky. Nowadays, even rural areas are changing. Some changes are for the better, but some go the wrong way, as in my village. I can say that rural Isaan is original and developing in a better way than other areas in Thailand.
People with the least have always given me the most, that’s from a 58yrs old especially during travel through Asia . When your in trouble here in the uk 80% will walk on by ❤
Today I sat with my Thai GF and her sisters in the garden in a village outside Chiang Mai. I don't speak Thai other than basic. I'm happy to sit and listen to them chit-chatting without understanding the whole conversation, there is something Mị̀mī pạỵh̄ā (no problem) about everything when they talk. Today I was thinking, here am I a Westerner wealthy by their standards and they are poorer financially, peasants as you say yet the thing that strikes me is how different we are yet how much the same we are as well. That's why the term peasants isn't correct. At heart, no one is different really. We have a basic desire to connect with each other.
Talking about people not being hungry in the village . When I’m in the village I always notice that neighbours pop in to each others houses and have noodles. I found it weird at first, because in the west it’s generally just immediate family that eat together. But in the village people are always going to visit each other for ‘lunch’….Neighbours are always giving each other food if there’s some going spare. Whether it fruit, vegetables , chilli’s ect . And it’s al very normal and no one keeps a tally. If someone needs something, Thais just give ❤️
Yes happiness is a state of mind. Some people try to find gratitude in what we find and what life brings while others are always planning to be happy in the future. There is only here & now 👍🙏
Don't understand why people would talk down about farmers and call them peasants. Those same farmers are the ones who work very hard to grow the food that those who look down on them eat. Without those farmers they would starve.
Village community spirit is off the charts in Thailand. They have virtually nothing but give half of what they have to the temple and when someone dies everyone chucks 100 baht in the pot for the funeral and celebrations. Eventually you get your share back 😫 Incredible people ❤🇹🇭
The families are always happy when one of the girls brings their farang boyfriend back to the village for an extended stay. Steak, BBQ food, fresh fish, Lao Kaho whiskey, cigarettes and Chang beer every night. The boyfriend is treated like a rock star for his generosity. I know from 1st hand experience 😂
Ryan had a video about this setting boundaries and not setting yourself up as an ATM. What you are describing sounds more like 40 years ago when a farang indeed was a novelty in the village. I no longer find this the case
@@Philip_Thornton This was only 2 years ago in a small rural village in Isaan. One example was when I was riding a motor bike through the village and as I rode past a group of kids on the side of the road they were all pointing at me and shouting out Falang.
From the very first time I visited Thailand in 1988, I visited some villages and was amazed at how happy the poorest Thai people were. I think the fact that a large number of them never went to school, stopped them thinking and analysing everything like we do in England and the West. There was zero rat race and everyone lived for today and had no plans for what's to come in the future. I still find myself wondering if they have it right or we do. I guess what's right in one country is not the same in another country. I am guilty of liking my material things and luxuries, but I would probably give up most of it to be able to live and more so think simply like the Thais. Thanks for another interesting video.
Very very true money is not everything ,i lived in sri lanka for many years ,the people were much happier than us in the uk ,most are alone and very unhappy ,well done to you and your lovely family in my option you are living the dream
Another great video Ryan. There is certainly a lot to unpack on the differences in life mindsets between the West and rural Thailand. I love the way Thailand forces you to slow down and think less (with exception of working in bkk). We r about to return home to bkk for a couple of weeks with the family. Feeling very grateful for the richness of life and happiness we maintain as a family with mixed race. 🙏🙏🙏🇹🇭🧘♂️🇦🇺
I love living in Thailand, it's just so much more relaxed than living in the UK, I can't imagine ever willingly returning there. About the only thing I would say as a warning about the Buddhist philosophy of living for today without concerning yourself with tomorrow, is the potential for a very difficult old age. My wife's parents have a friend who, as is common here, retired and expected her son to support her in her retirement. Unfortunately her son died just 5 months after she retired, she is now 68 has almost no money, grows food to eat and has had to start working again to be able to survive. She never expected her son to die before her and never considered, let alone planned, for supporting herself during her old age. At the moment she can survive by working, but what happens in 5, 10 or 20 years when she can't work? Perhaps as westerners we worry too much about the future, but to not worry at all is not a better alternative.
I read what you said and i see the same in my village though i live on a farm outside teh village Here such a person will continue to grow vegetables and will also in due course be assisted by the other villagers including myself
You’re such a profound individual Ryan!! Gotta love you for that…. I am most likely closer to your mom’s age & gosh, I wish there were more people like you in my college years and even now! Love the simplicity of rural life in Thailand…..you’re living the dream! Hopefully, my husband & myself can have that too when we do make our move there! Thanks for producing this Video 😉
Great video mate. I enjoy your insights and convo. Easy to listen to and very informative. Just came back from Thailand a week ago. Been holidaying there with the family over the last 20yrs. So many things we love. Keep up the great work. Good luck with the project 👍
Ryan,here in Sweden we have a very very wealthy guy he’s 93 years old now,and he grow up in a small farm where his mother and father had like five cows,and the father leased the land from a more wealthy farmer,and eventually they had to move out from the farm,and one month later the father passed away,but just before the father passed away,he said to his son…….the last “garment that you wear has no pockets” and that is so true,we can have many motorcycles,cars,houses,and what not,but we can’t take it with us,and during our life time…did it make us more happy,then all of your neighbours Ryan ?? I don’t think so. I like your videos and your thoughts on life Ryan.❤❤❤❤❤
Interesting video I have spent a lot of time on Thailand and found they have much higher happiness bank accounts that most of us in the west. Simplicity is beautiful!!
As usual an excellent video with a very good question made by an expert blogger I have been living here in rural Thailand for the last ten years and I can assure you the Thais are much happier than most Westerners. They have this wonderful culture of accepting life for what is is and are not always looking for more I have a huge admiration for them and have learnt a lot from them
Another great presentation about real life in Thailand! Your channel has given me a totally different view of Thailand than what I see on most other channels. And I really appreciate what you are doing! And you are right, I don't always agree with your viewpoints, but that is okay. We are both human beings that were placed in this world. And I think it is okay that we have different viewpoints because our viewpoints are a culmination of what our life experiences have been. Everyone's life experience is unique to them. Thus, their opinions and viewpoints are unique to them. Who knows the ultimate truth? I believe I know, but this not the time or place to go into that topic! I am positive that others on this channel also believe they know the ultimate truth. No need to debate that here. Just keep doing what you are doing. Great information, education, and joy in watching your family grow and your life experiences in Thailand. Thank you!
I'm new to your channel Ryan, and I find your vlogs and thoughts very interesting, sympathetic and engaging which is so humbling and nice to see. I'm from Denmark and travelled to Thailand 3 times already and have a few good friends living there already that I visit each occasion. It's an amazing country and love both sides of it (city and rural Thailand). And you are very correct in saying that rural Thailand is the most friendly and happiest, I found to be aswell. Keep up the good work you do and I look forward to seeing more of your vlogs in the future 🙏
I located myself in a rural area precisely because of the local population. Communication isn't easy but well worth the effort trying. The people are on the whole genuine, helpful and friendly which is more than you can say about the population of Greater London where I used to live.
Great Video! Material things can bring a state of comfort or success but not happiness all the time. Cost a lot to own nice things like house and cars in the west.
Great walk and talk Ryan, Am always learning from you as "animism" I did not know of. People who live with stress and what I call constant yearning are never happy in my view. Yes, I am happy when I have no pain in my arms, legs, feet, back etc... that is very true for those of us in their late 60's. You seem like a 7 on happiness! 555 Being a learned philosopher as you are could be making you more unhappy compared to others, yet one of your strengths is speaking and describing the human condition which is honorable and quite important for you and us viewers. Woops, you are a psychologist! Oh well I still think of you as a philosopher. Yes, I was raised to be frugal and save. Too many in "first world" countries live paycheck to paycheck and are in constant debt bringing anxiety worry fear etc... into their existence. As Always Thank you. Peace and Love Y'all
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Thank's Ryan for a balanced, realistic informative vlog about the happiness and gratefulness Thai and for that matter other Asian cultures afford themselves as they simply live each day for what it is rather as you mentioned in the west the overthinking certainly deprives those of the joy's they should be trying to attain rather than the materialistic God's (consumerism) they worship which isn't good for the soul. Cheers!!
Narrow and small minded people just never think or know what’s round the corner for them . The majority of the people I’ve seen on your channel look very content and happy with their life x
Seeing all your vids all I see is well fed & happy people . They have there own land grow there own food look like very rich to me . Money doesn't make you rich . Love out :-)
Very well described - totaly agree! I have always been so well received and accepted in "my" village (not a permy, though) and I owe those people so much for sharing their happyness, daily life, their spiritual events and so many festive events: birthday parties, Song Kran, Roy Katong, Pee Mai, weddings and unfortunatelly a few funerals as well. I only had one case of "friction" - my mother in laws brother visiting from a village far away; he was initialy down right racist towards me, but eventually he too came around after we had our "ice breaking moment" (involving no small amounts of alcohol) and we get along really well now and I even miss the guy...It's tricky to know the wealth of local people in rural Thailand; some seem to be surprisingly well of, but it doesn't always show: A neighbouring family lives in a very typical rural housing arrangement - a few pretty basic buildings/sheads around a small yard. Few chickens, few pigs, bunch of dogs - the usual stuff. Then, they suddenly throw this HUGE party to which EVERYONE was invited - loads of food, drink music and entertainment. The day before a bunch of trucks arrived to the place with all sorts of gear, smackin up a serious Rock Festival grade stage, with light ramps, huge speaker systems - the whole works. The stage framing was like a 3 story building with stage workers hanging in wires while mounting lights etc. The thing filled up the whole yard, and a serious crowd showed up, spilling over far into the surrounding fields and the village streets... Professional actors (known from TV) and a literal orchestra played a historical comedy theatre kind of thing the whole night - even had a TV-team shooting from air-lifts! The whole spectacle was like a miniature Woodstock-festival and must have cost a small fortune, but was free for every one! Apparently a, since long deceased, family head had set up this "trust fund" earmarked to throw huge parties like that, every five years in his memory. Isn't THAT a great legacy or what?!!! The ways of the Thais are so fascinating and lovable and I count myself lucky to be included in them!
Aloha from Hawaii. Your lifestyle is very similar to ours. We enjoy your content and can relate to your lifestyle. I wish I could be there to help you build your home. I am retired in Hawaii. I may drop by someday to say hi. Be yourself and hold your children high.
Just finished building our retirement place in Northern Thailand after 20 years married in the UK, hoping to move over late next year and can't wait to live with the peasants on a more permanent basis 🙂
Loved this! 💗 I appreciate their simple way of life. (and o maybe you can be the village's counsellor if ever needed hehe 😄). As a side: not sure how kids feel about sending money to their families like if there might be a sense of burden or stress involved? do the parents expect that of them or is optional?
Hey Ryan, I’ve been watching your video’s for quite sometime. I really liked your commentary in this particular video. I live in Ban Khok Thom just south of Surin. I have not met more friendly, generous, genuinely happy people :) it’s a very communal attitude with neighbors helping neighbors. Ignorant people are going to say what they will about living here in Thailand. Tell them to stay home.
One of my favorite aspects of traveling has been the constant reexamination of what contributes to happiness and wellness. We have been fortunate enough to have been exposed to a lot of differnt ways of life. One of the more profound differences from our Western Culture Roots has been the general lack of correlation between money and happiness. I think you nail it when you talk about the constant state of worry or the constructs of elaborate planning. The happiest people don't worry and fret themselves to death.They take time to enjoy life and appreciate the meaningful things. We are back in the States currently and I can say I am starting to feel that underlining feeling of concern grip me once again. We will venture out again soon.
It’s very happy lifestyle to live in. You’re indeed very lucky person who can be able to live in Thailand without being bothered by another persons around. I live in Berlin Germany where I must go to work and have a hard working job in order to survive the highest costs of our rental properties , foods, etc. at the end of the month we nearly have 0 cent to save. German tourists are saving so hard to afford one holiday overseas. It’s not that easy to have some spare money for holiday. You should be so proud to spend your quality time like this. ❤❤❤❤
Village life in Thailand is the best ! If i feel like a change of pace , Chiangmai is just just two hours up the road . After a week in Chiangmai , i find myself longing for the village and my friends who live there .
I had to place a comment as I was touched by this video. It took a cross section of Thai society. The idea that you look after eachother work totally as a team is a beautiful concept. Rural England would have been like this maybe 200 years ago. Britain/England has totally lost this attitude. Many many decades of governments brainwashing kindness out of us. Pitting us against eachother. Thai government/ religion is still practicing unity and love to eachother. It's a marvel to behold from ruthless England.
I admire your efforts to define the differences between rural Thais and us farangs. Happiness is perhaps the easiest. But walk the village again and ask the same old ladies to define being poor.
Hey Ryan, thanks for sharing the straight forward truth and beauty of community and resilience in rural Thailand. Because you have a background in psychology, what are your thoughts on mental illness in Thailand (particularly village life) vs the West? I'm wondering about the areas of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, borderline, etc. Thanks for your wonderfully informative videos. 🙏💚
Always interesting and informative and entertaining, it seems go me they are a dam sight happier than we are in the west.miserable bloody weather and A great many miserable unhappy people
Years ago when I started in international sales I read that ~90+ % of humans never travel more than 200k from their birthplace. Sometimes, that's evident..😊
The thing that strikes me when we are in Thailand but also other SE Asian countries we have travelled to that they do not work by the clock. You ask a Thai what date it is, what day of the week it is or even what time it is and they will struggle to be able to tell you. I really admire this as in the west we are totally programmed by time.
Anyone who refers to any person as pesants is totally off the planet and has no idea about Thailand or Thai Culture or its people The village life which l have experianed is one of sharing and caring a sense of community a sense Family which compared to our lives in the west is a joke. Its all about self in the west of being independant Village life is a real lever every person is respected and position and wealth take a back seat to community Keep on keeping mate
My daughter from SA just spent 30 days in Thailand which i encouraged her to do looking for a better future. I was pleasantly surprised with her verbal feedback, pics and video's. It matches so much with what you are saying. She is currently in Cambodia and then hopefully visiting Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia. Would she have the same experience in those countries if you maybe know? Thank you!
Great video, thanks for the education on the fabric of Thai culture. But let's be serious, how can they achieve true happiness without a 82 inch flatscreen TV!? Impossible.
Hi Ryan. Very good video. Personally, I have nothing but great respect for the farming community. They work tremendously hard for what they have, which is typically far more than I can say for many spoiled westerners who are douchy enough to look down their big noses at them. I am curious, though, as you mentioned that you give yourself a 6/10 on a happiness scale. That seems quite low to me. Could you, perhaps, elaborate more on that and let us know what might make you happier, or what detracts so significantly from your happiness? Thanks, mate!
I've noticed that people with mental issues are guided into the temple environment and become monks. On a side note: it is extremely relaxing sipping on a wine and watching the peasants toil in the fields. Lol. They are definitely happy and don't seem to care if they are worse off, or better off than others.
Where abouts in Thailand are you ? I am very interested in building something in ubon when I finish in Phuket , it’s like two different country’s enjoy the countryside 🙏🏻
Rural Thais are the most happiest and friendly people I have ever met in my life. It was the first thing I noticed when I first visited Thailand back in 2000 . Seeing how happy they were with very little made me reconsider my western lifestyle. Family and community is number one.
A Simple life can be found anywhere. The western way of life can be very demanding and it helps add to expectations of success that often drives people mad. Being driven is not wrong, and living carefree is not wrong. It's the balance between the 2 where we hould be fining peace and happiness.
The difference between being able to speak Thai or not is night and day. I have lived in Thailand for 10 years and I just don't have the ability to learn a new language. So you have a big advantage that way. It makes everything so much easier and interacting with the locals so much more enjoyable.
The “peasants” are the soul of Thailand. Hard to truly love OR understand Thailand without an appreciation for its people. Suspect that isn’t a blinding flash of wisdom and true of most countries but I will say I have been fortunate enough to travel extensively and submit that I find rural Thailand exceptional from a general contentment perspective.
One thing that is not talked about much is the "collective consciousness" of a country. This gets influenced strongly by their religion, politics, culture, centuries of historical events, education, etc... I think this "recipe" is what creates the vibe or energy of a place. Thailand is very special in this regard.
Yes, I noticed so much happiness in rural Thailand. And I must admit i thought the villages would be so backward, poor and destitute. But ofcourse it's not. It's a lovely way of life, and people are rich in their happiness and contentment.
I am currently trying to learn live in a villiage outside NBLP. Every morning, when I go for a walk for exercise before it gets too hot, someone I’ve never met inevitably stop their scooter, and offers me a ride. To them, someone walking instead of riding a scooter is onviously needing of help.
Another excellent perspective from Thailand. As an American who has spent about 2 years un SE Asia, I will agree with your observations and opinions. There is a radical difference in 'cultural norms ' between Thailand and most Western countries....something that cannot be appreciated unless a person has spent time with "the peasants ". Tge Thais have virtually NO sense of entitlement, e.g., and appreciation us ever-present. I think this is an important lesson for everyone. When I return to the USA, a place of amazing abundance, I am astounded by how many people express a sense of deprivation, and seem to feel they have been cheated or something. It's very odd, and there can be no doubt there's a correlation between that sentiment and the ever increasing rate of mental health issues in the country.
I believe that the fundamental Buddhist beliefs,are why us farang enjoy the lazes fair atmosphere of Thai culture and appreciate ourselves more when we are not comparing ourselves to the people at home that we cannot aspire to.
The Thai people in the rural area that I have come across seem happier, less burdened by materialism, more relaxed and have more of a community spirit. Have seen friends and family bring surplus food, fruit and vegetable to share out. On a Sunday the family all coming together for bbq, drinking and fishing. Only seen 1 beggar in the close by town. Old boy, blind and body crippled. Happily drop him some baht every time. As do a lot of people.
Like my house looks fabulous from the outside whilst inside I’m in trackies and a shitty jumper. Am I happy? Yes to a certain extent but I’m not doing what I want to do. Having a nice house and car etc doesn’t make anyone happy. My happy place is Bali and I dream of going there for an extended period but circumstances won’t let me yet. Balinese people are so wonderful, weather is fabulous, food is delicious. Maybe next year?
Ryan. Your theory about being cold in UK…. It is not untrue. However, please consider that you body (blood) does adjust against cold or hot climates. So the climate is not necessary a point in the discussion. I would rather refer to extreme climates, which Thailand can be at times. The heat and humidity does paralyze to a certain stage. Just a food of thought. But for the rest of your explaining, I fully agree.
Here in the West we have been trained to think that money makes you happy and the more money you have the better you will feel. Keeping up with others and being taxed on every little thing including council tax, business rates, etc. has made us slaves to the corporates.
Some people believe that you cannot be free if you are weighed down by possessions. I don’t know if that’s true, but I do know that material possessions tend to create more expenses and work for maintenance. I envy these people; may they never be poisoned by consumerism.
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00:00 Intro
00:14 Peasants
01:00 Disclaimer
01:15 Begging In Rural Thailand
01:58 How They Look
02:32 Livestock & Land
03:53 First Interaction With Villagers
04:30 Why Are They Happier? The Weather
05:05 Poverty Thailand Vs UK
05:31Homelessness & Hunger
05:40 Second Interaction With Villagers
06:16 Food Provision & The Temple
06:53 Fear & Over Thinking
07:31 They Are Not Thinking
08:20 Community - Children Taking Care Of Parents
08:39 Talking To The Grandmas About Happiness
10:00 What Did They Say?
10:31 They Are Happier Than Me
11:10 Buddhism & Religion
12:50 Community Living Vs West
13:16 Neurosis & Psychological Issues In The West
14:20 Taking Care Of Parents Cycle
15:15 Conclusion
My wife graduated from college in Bkk 55yrs ago, many of her classmates were country students who were sent to Bkk to study, my wife finished up marrying me and moved to Australia. Now we are retired visiting Thailand for months at a time and renewing acquaintances, including those who studied and returned to all parts of Thailand. To visit them, you would think they look as if they havent got a dollar, but then you find they have children who are professionals, living all over the world, they have travelled internationally, but still return to the farm, living the simple life. I envy them, and as you they are much happier than me.
Entitlement breeds resentment. That's the main issue in the West. Everyone feels entitled to become a millionaire and live a luxurious life and anything short of this breeds contempt and resentment.
People are narrow and small minded, they are too occupied in the maze of the ratrace. We are moving to Thailand when our kids turn 18 (in about 6 years). We leave them the house at home or they can come with if they like. To start with 6 months a year, until we turn 50 atleast and then apply for the retirement Visa (in 9 years). We want to find our paradise outside the tourist beaten path aswell. We have been several times to Thailand. We are well travelled and seen quite a lot of the world, but we always are most happy in Thailand. Why just survive and just exist in our home country when you can LIVE be HAPPY in Thailand.
Thais are just as Small Minded. Thailand 🇹🇭 is for Sexpats is True.
Sorry to spoil your dream in that if you are in living in the UK you might not be allowed to leave in 9 years time.
Yes…Thailand is quite a remarkable place…I fear the Western influx will ruin the country and pray the Thai government will protect its culture by expelling bad actors.
@@johncooke61 We live in and are from Norway, why wouldnt you be allowed to leave the UK to live in Thailand in 9 years you think ? Must be a sudden and huge change in politics for British people to lose the ability to move out of the commonwealth. You sound like a negative Nancy if you ask me, you or any other person will never spoil my dreams, so dont worry :)
@@johncooke61 bullshyte John. You're just jealous
Hi dude in a hat! They don't have nothing, they have everything. At first I suspected people were acting overly happy to be polite in my presence. I have no less than 10 cameras all over my property and listen in to all the visitors that pop by to visit mom. Food and laughs are always shared even without a farang about 555. I have never seen a happier bunch of hard working folks in my life. I could sit with the grandmas all day!! Even though you're just wearing a hat, your 110% spot on with this video.
Where you are walking is identical to where I live. The local people, my extended Thai family are very kind, generous with their help and time. Where possible I help them and they help me.
My thank you to them is most often to share a couple of cold Chang or Leo. 🙏🍺
❤🙏🏼for the super rant!🤣👍🏼My Mum died two week ago 96yrs UK . It is sad, but I feel so free, because now I don’t need to go back anymore. It was so sad to see everything that is happening there. Asia seems the best place in the world right now. Living a simple life is why they are so contented. They have hearts of gold! 💞💞💞💞
Living off the land is hard work but a pure life! I respect the farming way of life the most.
I have lived here surin for nearly 22 years now i am an old scouser 73 years young, i would dread going back to the uk, where no one smiles as they pass by, NUFF SAID EY !
In the ten years i have lived here in rural Thailand on a farmie have seen more happiness and than in my previous 70 years in my home country
i have no intention of ever leaving this lovely country
@@RealistThailand1943 What ever you do do NOT watch thai familly soaps on the telly
@@hookywookywithmalarkyman704 I agree one thousand % with you.
No further comment before i am shot.
Fortunately I do not understand Thai
@@RealistThailand1943 As long as you got a few quid then you will do fine bazza 😆
On my first trip to Thailand I ate at a family’s home turned restaurant under a small carport,they had a young daughter that was helping/working she couldn’t have been older than 6 they didn’t have much at all . She had an old Barbie doll she played with after helping serve us she had the biggest smile and laughed and played. My daughters are great kids but want for nothing nor do they ask but I told them I never want to hear I’m bored nor frowns in their faces showed her picture and told my story and it really sunk in their head fast forward 13 years my girls are 20-22 and never forgotten that little girl. Not this years trip but the following I’m taking my daughters to Thailand so they can experience and understand why I love going and hopefully able to eat at that families home .
I’ve been to Thailand 30 times and work with Karen (car-wren) refugees and orphans from Burma. I was there to help them but they profoundly helped me. I would much rather live a very simple life in Thailand serving others than enslaved by my possessions in the US that require my constant time and maintenance.
Say.. I saw somewhere -'retired persons cannot volunteer '..I was disappointed...
Volunteering is -
family's legacy.😊...
Hoping Thai government can clarify..
I want to Volunteer when I get back to Thailand ❤🇹🇭 ❤
Hai Ryan..just to share with you,my wife..she's from a javanese kampung..which we call in english village..
She's a padi farmers daughter..l love and appreciate the village (kampung) a hold lot better than living in a city..in Malaysia..
I always tell to people who don't know how to think about facts about money and about survival..when you live in the city..it's all about having money..but back in my wife's kampung..this farmers survive all from what they grow and chickens goats and cows that they rare..l know they live a very simple life but nothing great..and as you said..when from the family members that have left the village and gone out to the city..they send back home money for the parents..like what we are doing now..From the time l married my wife..l only know to go for vacation at my wife's kampung for a holiday..😅
I’ve never left my home country, and I absolutely love rural Thailand from what I have seen on your channel, my soul craves this type of lifestyle. Western mindset is full of arrogance, and ignorance.
I was blown away at the sense of community in places away from the tourist areas.. I think that was the thing thats made me want to come back again.
In the ten years I have been living in rural Thailand i have never seen one Tourist here and I know it will remain this way
As a former farmer, I was happier back then, even though we had so much debt but work at the farm, there are no rush, less pressure. Now, I have to work in the city, rush to work every day, and face a lot of pressure at work. When I have time off, I mostly go back home to see the views and nature. It helps me calm down, just like your vlog, which helps me through rough times. When I watch, it feels like I'm home.
Ryan, you are truly lucky. Nowadays, even rural areas are changing. Some changes are for the better, but some go the wrong way, as in my village. I can say that rural Isaan is original and developing in a better way than other areas in Thailand.
Cheers Billy
People with the least have always given me the most, that’s from a 58yrs old especially during travel through Asia . When your in trouble here in the uk 80% will walk on by ❤
Today I sat with my Thai GF and her sisters in the garden in a village outside Chiang Mai. I don't speak Thai other than basic. I'm happy to sit and listen to them chit-chatting without understanding the whole conversation, there is something Mị̀mī pạỵh̄ā (no problem) about everything when they talk. Today I was thinking, here am I a Westerner wealthy by their standards and they are poorer financially, peasants as you say yet the thing that strikes me is how different we are yet how much the same we are as well. That's why the term peasants isn't correct. At heart, no one is different really. We have a basic desire to connect with each other.
Community living 100% agree - We are social animals and the virtual community is a poor second best. Glad to see you all well Ryan!
Talking about people not being hungry in the village . When I’m in the village I always notice that neighbours pop in to each others houses and have noodles. I found it weird at first, because in the west it’s generally just immediate family that eat together. But in the village people are always going to visit each other for ‘lunch’….Neighbours are always giving each other food if there’s some going spare. Whether it fruit, vegetables , chilli’s ect . And it’s al very normal and no one keeps a tally. If someone needs something, Thais just give ❤️
Yes happiness is a state of mind.
Some people try to find gratitude in what we find and what life brings while others are always planning to be happy in the future.
There is only here & now 👍🙏
Don't understand why people would talk down about farmers and call them peasants. Those same farmers are the ones who work very hard to grow the food that those who look down on them eat. Without those farmers they would starve.
You don’t need money to be rich
Ignorance
อยู่ไทยนี่สบายสุดๆแล้ว ของกินก็เยอะ ที่ท่องเที่ยวก็เยอะ ห้างก็เยอะตลาดนัดตลาดสดก็เยอะ ราคาก็ถูก อยู่บ้านนอกทำงานเส็จก็นอน 😊
Village community spirit is off the charts in Thailand. They have virtually nothing but give half of what they have to the temple and when someone dies everyone chucks 100 baht in the pot for the funeral and celebrations. Eventually you get your share back 😫
Incredible people ❤🇹🇭
👍🙏
The families are always happy when one of the girls brings their farang boyfriend back to the village for an extended stay.
Steak, BBQ food, fresh fish, Lao Kaho whiskey, cigarettes and Chang beer every night. The boyfriend is treated like a rock star for his generosity. I know from 1st hand experience 😂
Ryan had a video about this setting boundaries and not setting yourself up as an ATM. What you are describing sounds more like 40 years ago when a farang indeed was a novelty in the village. I no longer find this the case
@@Philip_Thorntontrue, those times are long and luckily i’d say.
@@Philip_Thornton This was only 2 years ago in a small rural village in Isaan.
One example was when I was riding a motor bike through the village and as I rode past a group of kids on the side of the road they were all pointing at me and shouting out Falang.
From the very first time I visited Thailand in 1988, I visited some villages and was amazed at how happy the poorest Thai people were. I think the fact that a large number of them never went to school, stopped them thinking and analysing everything like we do in England and the West. There was zero rat race and everyone lived for today and had no plans for what's to come in the future. I still find myself wondering if they have it right or we do. I guess what's right in one country is not the same in another country. I am guilty of liking my material things and luxuries, but I would probably give up most of it to be able to live and more so think simply like the Thais. Thanks for another interesting video.
sometimes the most materialistic personalities are exactly in developing third world countries
You would have made an EXCELLENT therapist Ryan!
Very very true money is not everything ,i lived in sri lanka for many years ,the people were much happier than us in the uk ,most are alone and very unhappy ,well done to you and your lovely family in my option you are living the dream
Thank you for another great video
Another great video Ryan. There is certainly a lot to unpack on the differences in life mindsets between the West and rural Thailand. I love the way Thailand forces you to slow down and think less (with exception of working in bkk). We r about to return home to bkk for a couple of weeks with the family. Feeling very grateful for the richness of life and happiness we maintain as a family with mixed race. 🙏🙏🙏🇹🇭🧘♂️🇦🇺
Very well presented content Ryan, thanks!
Great video
Amazing content. I love it.
I love living in Thailand, it's just so much more relaxed than living in the UK, I can't imagine ever willingly returning there.
About the only thing I would say as a warning about the Buddhist philosophy of living for today without concerning yourself with tomorrow, is the potential for a very difficult old age.
My wife's parents have a friend who, as is common here, retired and expected her son to support her in her retirement. Unfortunately her son died just 5 months after she retired, she is now 68 has almost no money, grows food to eat and has had to start working again to be able to survive. She never expected her son to die before her and never considered, let alone planned, for supporting herself during her old age. At the moment she can survive by working, but what happens in 5, 10 or 20 years when she can't work?
Perhaps as westerners we worry too much about the future, but to not worry at all is not a better alternative.
I read what you said and i see the same in my village though i live on a farm outside teh village
Here such a person will continue to grow vegetables and will also in due course be assisted by the other villagers including myself
You’re such a profound individual Ryan!! Gotta love you for that…. I am most likely closer to your mom’s age & gosh, I wish there were more people like you in my college years and even now! Love the simplicity of rural life in Thailand…..you’re living the dream! Hopefully, my husband & myself can have that too when we do make our move there! Thanks for producing this Video 😉
I really enjoyed that. A great insight. And those amazing Thai ladies - brilliant.
Yeah the weather is huge....even my wrinkly little trousers gecko loosens itself and is more relaxed.
Great video mate. I enjoy your insights and convo. Easy to listen to and very informative. Just came back from Thailand a week ago. Been holidaying there with the family over the last 20yrs. So many things we love. Keep up the great work. Good luck with the project 👍
Well done, nice village tour
Ryan,here in Sweden we have a very very wealthy guy he’s 93 years old now,and he grow up in a small farm where his mother and father had like five cows,and the father leased the land from a more wealthy farmer,and eventually they had to move out from the farm,and one month later the father passed away,but just before the father passed away,he said to his son…….the last “garment that you wear has no pockets” and that is so true,we can have many motorcycles,cars,houses,and what not,but we can’t take it with us,and during our life time…did it make us more happy,then all of your neighbours Ryan ?? I don’t think so. I like your videos and your thoughts on life Ryan.❤❤❤❤❤
Your local area looks beautiful and the locals very friendly. I can't see what else matters.
Good talk 😎👍
Well said mate
Very Philosophical! Very good.
Interesting video I have spent a lot of time on Thailand and found they have much higher happiness bank accounts that most of us in the west. Simplicity is beautiful!!
well said that man
As usual an excellent video with a very good question made by an expert blogger
I have been living here in rural Thailand for the last ten years and I can assure you the Thais are much happier than most Westerners. They have this wonderful culture of accepting life for what is is and are not always looking for more
I have a huge admiration for them and have learnt a lot from them
I really had your happiness meter down for a 6.75.😀🤣🤣 Great video!
Ryan is a solid 7 in my humble opinion.
Another great presentation about real life in Thailand! Your channel has given me a totally different view of Thailand than what I see on most other channels. And I really appreciate what you are doing! And you are right, I don't always agree with your viewpoints, but that is okay. We are both human beings that were placed in this world. And I think it is okay that we have different viewpoints because our viewpoints are a culmination of what our life experiences have been. Everyone's life experience is unique to them. Thus, their opinions and viewpoints are unique to them. Who knows the ultimate truth? I believe I know, but this not the time or place to go into that topic! I am positive that others on this channel also believe they know the ultimate truth. No need to debate that here. Just keep doing what you are doing. Great information, education, and joy in watching your family grow and your life experiences in Thailand. Thank you!
Thank you Michael and appreciate the support of the content 🙏🙏
I'm new to your channel Ryan, and I find your vlogs and thoughts very interesting, sympathetic and engaging which is so humbling and nice to see. I'm from Denmark and travelled to Thailand 3 times already and have a few good friends living there already that I visit each occasion. It's an amazing country and love both sides of it (city and rural Thailand). And you are very correct in saying that rural Thailand is the most friendly and happiest, I found to be aswell. Keep up the good work you do and I look forward to seeing more of your vlogs in the future 🙏
I located myself in a rural area precisely because of the local population. Communication isn't easy but well worth the effort trying. The people are on the whole genuine, helpful and friendly which is more than you can say about the population of Greater London where I used to live.
Great Video! Material things can bring a state of comfort or success but not happiness all the time. Cost a lot to own nice things like house and cars in the west.
Great walk and talk Ryan, Am always learning from you as "animism" I did not know of. People who live with stress and what I call constant yearning are never happy in my view. Yes, I am happy when I have no pain in my arms, legs, feet, back etc... that is very true for those of us in their late 60's. You seem like a 7 on happiness! 555 Being a learned philosopher as you are could be making you more unhappy compared to others, yet one of your strengths is speaking and describing the human condition which is honorable and quite important for you and us viewers. Woops, you are a psychologist! Oh well I still think of you as a philosopher. Yes, I was raised to be frugal and save. Too many in "first world" countries live paycheck to paycheck and are in constant debt bringing anxiety worry fear etc... into their existence. As Always Thank you. Peace and Love Y'all
Thank's Ryan for a balanced, realistic informative vlog about the happiness and gratefulness Thai and for that matter other Asian cultures afford themselves as they simply live each day for what it is rather as you mentioned in the west the overthinking certainly deprives those of the joy's they should be trying to attain rather than the materialistic God's (consumerism) they worship which isn't good for the soul. Cheers!!
Narrow and small minded people just never think or know what’s round the corner for them . The majority of the people I’ve seen on your channel look very content and happy with their life x
Seeing all your vids all I see is well fed & happy people . They have there own land grow there own food look like very rich to me . Money doesn't make you rich . Love out :-)
Many people when I was in Thailand said to me Dave you think too much😅😅
Very well described - totaly agree! I have always been so well received and accepted in "my" village (not a permy, though) and I owe those people so much for sharing their happyness, daily life, their spiritual events and so many festive events: birthday parties, Song Kran, Roy Katong, Pee Mai, weddings and unfortunatelly a few funerals as well. I only had one case of "friction" - my mother in laws brother visiting from a village far away; he was initialy down right racist towards me, but eventually he too came around after we had our "ice breaking moment" (involving no small amounts of alcohol) and we get along really well now and I even miss the guy...It's tricky to know the wealth of local people in rural Thailand; some seem to be surprisingly well of, but it doesn't always show: A neighbouring family lives in a very typical rural housing arrangement - a few pretty basic buildings/sheads around a small yard. Few chickens, few pigs, bunch of dogs - the usual stuff. Then, they suddenly throw this HUGE party to which EVERYONE was invited - loads of food, drink music and entertainment. The day before a bunch of trucks arrived to the place with all sorts of gear, smackin up a serious Rock Festival grade stage, with light ramps, huge speaker systems - the whole works. The stage framing was like a 3 story building with stage workers hanging in wires while mounting lights etc. The thing filled up the whole yard, and a serious crowd showed up, spilling over far into the surrounding fields and the village streets... Professional actors (known from TV) and a literal orchestra played a historical comedy theatre kind of thing the whole night - even had a TV-team shooting from air-lifts! The whole spectacle was like a miniature Woodstock-festival and must have cost a small fortune, but was free for every one! Apparently a, since long deceased, family head had set up this "trust fund" earmarked to throw huge parties like that, every five years in his memory. Isn't THAT a great legacy or what?!!! The ways of the Thais are so fascinating and lovable and I count myself lucky to be included in them!
Aloha from Hawaii. Your lifestyle is very similar to ours.
We enjoy your content and can relate to your lifestyle.
I wish I could be there to help you build your home. I am retired in Hawaii. I may drop by someday to say hi. Be yourself and hold your children high.
I couldn't agree more sir I am 60 and grew up in the deep rural southeast of US we were poor and blessed
Just finished building our retirement place in Northern Thailand after 20 years married in the UK, hoping to move over late next year and can't wait to live with the peasants on a more permanent basis 🙂
Best move you could ever make.
Stay eternal, brother.
Loved this! 💗 I appreciate their simple way of life. (and o maybe you can be the village's counsellor if ever needed hehe 😄). As a side: not sure how kids feel about sending money to their families like if there might be a sense of burden or stress involved? do the parents expect that of them or is optional?
Hey Ryan, I’ve been watching your video’s for quite sometime. I really liked your commentary in this particular video. I live in Ban Khok Thom just south of Surin. I have not met more friendly, generous, genuinely happy people :) it’s a very communal attitude with neighbors helping neighbors. Ignorant people are going to say what they will about living here in Thailand. Tell them to stay home.
One of my favorite aspects of traveling has been the constant reexamination of what contributes to happiness and wellness. We have been fortunate enough to have been exposed to a lot of differnt ways of life. One of the more profound differences from our Western Culture Roots has been the general lack of correlation between money and happiness. I think you nail it when you talk about the constant state of worry or the constructs of elaborate planning. The happiest people don't worry and fret themselves to death.They take time to enjoy life and appreciate the meaningful things. We are back in the States currently and I can say I am starting to feel that underlining feeling of concern grip me once again. We will venture out again soon.
It’s very happy lifestyle to live in. You’re indeed very lucky person who can be able to live in Thailand without being bothered by another persons around. I live in Berlin Germany where I must go to work and have a hard working job in order to survive the highest costs of our rental properties , foods, etc. at the end of the month we nearly have 0 cent to save. German tourists are saving so hard to afford one holiday overseas. It’s not that easy to have some spare money for holiday. You should be so proud to spend your quality time like this. ❤❤❤❤
Village life in Thailand is the best !
If i feel like a change of pace , Chiangmai is just just two hours up the road . After a week in Chiangmai , i find myself longing for the village and my friends who live there .
How long did it take you to learn to speak thai? And do you recommend any sources. Love your channel by the way! So informative 😁
I had to place a comment as I was touched by this video. It took a cross section of Thai society. The idea that you look after eachother work totally as a team is a beautiful concept.
Rural England would have been like this maybe 200 years ago. Britain/England has totally lost this attitude. Many many decades of governments brainwashing kindness out of us. Pitting us against eachother.
Thai government/ religion is still practicing unity and love to eachother.
It's a marvel to behold from ruthless England.
I admire your efforts to define the differences between rural Thais and us farangs. Happiness is perhaps the easiest. But walk the village again and ask the same old ladies to define being poor.
I am jealous of the lifestyle. Simplicity seems much more
Hey Ryan, thanks for sharing the straight forward truth and beauty of community and resilience in rural Thailand. Because you have a background in psychology, what are your thoughts on mental illness in Thailand (particularly village life) vs the West? I'm wondering about the areas of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, borderline, etc. Thanks for your wonderfully informative videos. 🙏💚
The farmers have such a pride without being silly
Always interesting and informative and entertaining, it seems go me they are a dam sight happier than we are in the west.miserable bloody weather and A great many miserable unhappy people
Reminds me of the Fable of the Farmer whose house burned in the night.
"I now have a better view of the Moon", he said.
Years ago when I started in international sales I read that ~90+ % of humans never travel more than 200k from their birthplace. Sometimes, that's evident..😊
The thing that strikes me when we are in Thailand but also other SE Asian countries we have travelled to that they do not work by the clock. You ask a Thai what date it is, what day of the week it is or even what time it is and they will struggle to be able to tell you. I really admire this as in the west we are totally programmed by time.
The people are proud of what they have. And yes they are happier, same as we was in the 70s 80s, when we had nothing.
Anyone who refers to any person as pesants is totally off the planet and has no idea about Thailand or Thai Culture or its people
The village life which l have experianed is one of sharing and caring a sense of community a sense Family which compared to our lives in the west is a joke. Its all about self in the west of being independant
Village life is a real lever every person is respected and position and wealth take a back seat to community
Keep on keeping mate
My daughter from SA just spent 30 days in Thailand which i encouraged her to do looking for a better future. I was pleasantly surprised with her verbal feedback, pics and video's. It matches so much with what you are saying.
She is currently in Cambodia and then hopefully visiting Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia. Would she have the same experience in those countries if you maybe know?
Thank you!
Be careful in Cambodia 🙏🙏
Great video, thanks for the education on the fabric of Thai culture. But let's be serious, how can they achieve true happiness without a 82 inch flatscreen TV!? Impossible.
Hi Ryan. Very good video. Personally, I have nothing but great respect for the farming community. They work tremendously hard for what they have, which is typically far more than I can say for many spoiled westerners who are douchy enough to look down their big noses at them. I am curious, though, as you mentioned that you give yourself a 6/10 on a happiness scale. That seems quite low to me. Could you, perhaps, elaborate more on that and let us know what might make you happier, or what detracts so significantly from your happiness? Thanks, mate!
I've noticed that people with mental issues are guided into the temple environment and become monks. On a side note: it is extremely relaxing sipping on a wine and watching the peasants toil in the fields. Lol. They are definitely happy and don't seem to care if they are worse off, or better off than others.
That is only on the surface. Thais are very concerned with where they rank in the local pecking order. Everyone keeps score.
Where abouts in Thailand are you ? I am very interested in building something in ubon when I finish in Phuket , it’s like two different country’s enjoy the countryside 🙏🏻
They have it all over the West in lifestyle and outlook.
Rural Thais are the most happiest and friendly people I have ever met in my life. It was the first thing I noticed when I first visited Thailand back in 2000 . Seeing how happy they were with very little made me reconsider my western lifestyle. Family and community is number one.
All I see in the country Thai are drunks, blohards n rock n roll.
A Simple life can be found anywhere. The western way of life can be very demanding and it helps add to expectations of success that often drives people mad.
Being driven is not wrong, and living carefree is not wrong. It's the balance between the 2 where we hould be fining peace and happiness.
The difference between being able to speak Thai or not is night and day. I have lived in Thailand for 10 years and I just don't have the ability to learn a new language. So you have a big advantage that way. It makes everything so much easier and interacting with the locals so much more enjoyable.
The “peasants” are the soul of Thailand. Hard to truly love OR understand Thailand without an appreciation for its people. Suspect that isn’t a blinding flash of wisdom and true of most countries but I will say I have been fortunate enough to travel extensively and submit that I find rural Thailand exceptional from a general contentment perspective.
Thai don't sweat the small stuff.sabai sabai.keep it rollin
One thing that is not talked about much is the "collective consciousness" of a country. This gets influenced strongly by their religion, politics, culture, centuries of historical events, education, etc... I think this "recipe" is what creates the vibe or energy of a place. Thailand is very special in this regard.
Agree on this - very special 👍🙏
Yes, I noticed so much happiness in rural Thailand. And I must admit i thought the villages would be so backward, poor and destitute. But ofcourse it's not. It's a lovely way of life, and people are rich in their happiness and contentment.
I am currently trying to learn live in a villiage outside NBLP. Every morning, when I go for a walk for exercise before it gets too hot, someone I’ve never met inevitably stop their scooter, and offers me a ride. To them, someone walking instead of riding a scooter is onviously needing of help.
Another excellent perspective from Thailand. As an American who has spent about 2 years un SE Asia, I will agree with your observations and opinions. There is a radical difference in 'cultural norms ' between Thailand and most Western countries....something that cannot be appreciated unless a person has spent time with "the peasants ". Tge Thais have virtually NO sense of entitlement, e.g., and appreciation us ever-present. I think this is an important lesson for everyone. When I return to the USA, a place of amazing abundance, I am astounded by how many people express a sense of deprivation, and seem to feel they have been cheated or something. It's very odd, and there can be no doubt there's a correlation between that sentiment and the ever increasing rate of mental health issues in the country.
I believe that the fundamental Buddhist beliefs,are why us farang enjoy the lazes fair atmosphere of Thai culture and appreciate ourselves more when we are not comparing ourselves to the people at home that we cannot aspire to.
The Thai people in the rural area that I have come across seem happier, less burdened by materialism, more relaxed and have more of a community spirit. Have seen friends and family bring surplus food, fruit and vegetable to share out. On a Sunday the family all coming together for bbq, drinking and fishing.
Only seen 1 beggar in the close by town. Old boy, blind and body crippled. Happily drop him some baht every time. As do a lot of people.
Like my house looks fabulous from the outside whilst inside I’m in trackies and a shitty jumper. Am I happy? Yes to a certain extent but I’m not doing what I want to do. Having a nice house and car etc doesn’t make anyone happy. My happy place is Bali and I dream of going there for an extended period but circumstances won’t let me yet. Balinese people are so wonderful, weather is fabulous, food is delicious. Maybe next year?
Peasants are smarter and happier than most of the ignorant people around.. make your own conclusions..🙏🔝🇹🇭
Ryan. Your theory about being cold in UK…. It is not untrue. However, please consider that you body (blood) does adjust against cold or hot climates. So the climate is not necessary a point in the discussion. I would rather refer to extreme climates, which Thailand can be at times. The heat and humidity does paralyze to a certain stage. Just a food of thought. But for the rest of your explaining, I fully agree.
Here in the West we have been trained to think that money makes you happy and the more money you have the better you will feel. Keeping up with others and being taxed on every little thing including council tax, business rates, etc. has made us slaves to the corporates.
Some people believe that you cannot be free if you are weighed down by possessions. I don’t know if that’s true, but I do know that material possessions tend to create more expenses and work for maintenance. I envy these people; may they never be poisoned by consumerism.