Life, Love & the Little Things Inbetween

There's Still Some Fight Left

The results from the recent Australian and Canadian elections give hope that the world is not willing to accept Trumpism lying down. Both countries would have changed governments if not for the threats of tariffs and imperialism coming from the Whitehouse of late. We have a common enemy, and for the first time in my life, I see China as a better 'bedmate' than the US. Of course, this is simply a reaction and not necessarily a wise choice.

Trade between the US and China is at a standstill right now, but the rest of the world is carrying on as best as it can. China is Australia's largest trading partner, and it seems we are reaping some benefits from the trade war between the two superpowers. And with no trade surplus with Australia, the US deeming a 10% tariff...that may be subject to reduction once the two parties sit down to talk, is better than a lot of other countries have to deal with.

I am trying not to allow my personal views on the current president to affect me negatively. After all, it isn't my country that is at risk of falling into a dictatorship.

In Thailand, the cost of living is going up, but compared to Australia and the US, I am certainly not complaining about things. We just bought thirty eggs for 104 baht (US$3). My monthly rent, electricity and water costs combined come to 17200 baht (US$524). I have noticed a slight increase in grocery prices over the year, but nothing too drastic. I sometimes compare (by going online) the prices of certain items to what I would pay in Australia. Things like coffee, cereal, bread and milk are on a par with Thailand. Gasoline is 35 baht per litre (US$4 per gallon), which is a lot cheaper than in Australia. The real savings come in the form of rent (obviously), utilities and buying smart by going to fresh food markets, and when not cooking at home, eating street food rather than going to restaurants.

This post is looking like an advertisement for anyone struggling in the West to move to Thailand...and if things don't work out for those of you in the US who find yourselves on the outside of MAGA doctrine, Thailand is one of the easiest countries to relocate to as far as gaining a long-term visa is concerned. It isn't perfect, however, and many things cause expats to fail, including the hot weather, language barriers, and simply missing friends and family back home. I've had moments where I had doubts, but overall, I am happy living in Thailand. Nada is continuing to teach me Thai, and I am getting better. It will take time...which is something I have plenty of.