It’s natural for people to get territorial about their life choices, especially when it comes to where they live. Among expats, I’ve noticed a common pattern: not only is Thailand “the best place in the world,” but their particular corner of it — be it Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, or a remote island — is held up as the pinnacle of living. It’s almost as if defending their chosen location is part of defending their own identity. And yet, I often wonder how anyone can make such sweeping claims with real authority when most of us have only lived in three or four different countries at most.
Calling any one place “the best” is a grand statement, and it ignores the sliding variables that make lifestyle satisfaction so personal. Climate, cost of living, healthcare access, community vibe, family needs — these all matter, and they shift over time. A single person in their 30s may thrive in a buzzing nightlife scene, while the same person in their 50s might prefer peace, space, and nature.
Our needs and priorities evolve, and so does our definition of “best.” That’s why I see such claims as more about personal pride than objective truth. Thailand might be wonderful, Pattaya might be fantastic, but there’s no universal yardstick. What’s perfect for one is unworkable for another. Better to celebrate what works for us without assuming it’s the global gold standard — because, in the end, “best” is only ever in the eye of the beholder.
But you can still get the most out of Thailand…
That said, you can get the most out of wherever you choose to live by learning as much as possible — from practical tips to hidden gems. For Thailand, I believe no resource comes close to the Dan About Thailand Free to Download app, which I think is the best app for everything about living, working, and enjoying life in this incredible country.
Whether you’re a holidaymaker, digital nomad, or expat — this is the app to experience Thailand like you actually live here.
Apple – click here:
https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/dan-about-thailand/id6476618367
Android – click here:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.danaboutthailand.app
