The Thai Adventures of Rob B

Since moving to our rural village, we have supported Suan Kluai School by attending events, giving the children treats and helping wherever we could. My sponsored walk in April 2024   helped raise funds towards a new kindergarten block. As New Year 2026 approached, it was time for a new fundraiser: a remarkable sponsored cycle ride.

Since moving to Thailand in November 2021, I have learned many things about adapting to a different culture and building a new life. Friends and readers often ask what advice I'd give to anyone thinking of making the move themselves. These are simply my own thoughts and experiences. Everyone's situation is different.

One of the best things about moving to Thailand in November 2021 has been the opportunity to continue following football while exploring far more of the country than I ever managed during short holidays. In October 2025, my wife Taew and I headed to Roi Et for a weekend of football, sightseeing and the chance to catch up with friends.

A Sunday with no football planned unexpectedly turned into one of my most enjoyable cycling adventures through the rural Sisaket countryside in early August 2025.

It is surprising just how little is known about the many festivals staged around Thailand, even by expats living there or regular visitors. I'm a prime example. Despite visiting the Land of Smiles nearly 30 times before moving here, I had no idea events such as the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival even existed.

A local rocket festival in rural Sisaket sounded like the perfect Sunday outing. What we didn’t expect was to end the day dancing through village lanes as a young Thai man prepared to enter monkhood.

I thought I was getting used to the format of Songkran celebrations in our countryside Isan village. How many times must I remind myself never to presume anything in Thailand? Once again, I expected a quiet evening at home, only to end up at a local Muay Thai boxing meeting.

Betong is one of Thailand's most intriguing destinations — yet many visitors have never even heard of it. Tucked away in the country's deep south near the Malaysian border, it combines spectacular mountain scenery, multicultural heritage, excellent food and a fascinating recent history.