Resources

Tested & approved tools

My Resources for
Living in Thailand

Services I personally use every day as an expat in Isaan — for over 3 years.

📢 Transparency: Some links below are affiliate links. If you use these services, I earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools I actually use myself.
💳

Finance & Money Transfers

⭐ My pick
Free to open

Wise — Transfers with no hidden fees

Receive your pension or transfer savings to Thailand at the real exchange rate. On €1,000, you typically save €20–40 compared to a traditional bank wire.

✍️ I use Wise every month to receive my pension from Portugal. Transparent, fast, and reliable.
Open an account
🏥

Health Insurance

⭐ My pick
From ~$40/month

SafetyWing — Flexible expat insurance

International coverage, monthly payments with no annual commitment. Accepted for the Thai retirement visa. A solid option for expat retirees who want real protection without breaking the bank.

✍️ Easy to sign up, fast reimbursements. Best value for money for long-term stays in Asia.
See plans
🚌

Transport & Connectivity

⭐ My pick
200+ countries

Airalo — International eSIM, hassle-free

No more queuing at the airport SIM counter. With Airalo, you buy and activate a virtual SIM directly on your phone — before you even board. Coverage across Thailand and all of Southeast Asia at unbeatable rates.

✍️ Wish I’d had this when I landed in Bangkok. Instant connection, no physical chip to lose.
Browse eSIMs
Trains · Buses · Ferries

12Go Asia — Transport across Southeast Asia

The go-to platform for booking trains, long-distance buses and ferries across Thailand and beyond. English interface, mobile ticket. Essential for travelling from Surin to Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Phuket without overpaying.

✍️ I use 12Go for train trips from Surin. Reliable, and tickets go straight to your phone.
Search a route
🏨

Accommodation & Activities

No sign-up fee

Booking.com — Hotels & apartments

For your first nights in Thailand or weekend getaways from Surin. Wide selection, flexible cancellation on most listings.

Search
No sign-up fee

GetYourGuide — Tours & Experiences

Temples, Thai cooking classes, day trips from Bangkok or Chiang Mai. Book online, free cancellation on most activities up to 24h before.

Explore