There are many reasons you want to get away from what you have been used to and start your life as an expat. Thailand is an incredibly popular and welcoming destination. With a wide range of visa options and villas for sale in Phuket for expats, living in a tropical paradise is a dream that can easily come true. Thailand is also known for its cuisine. Let’s see what a new chapter in your life has for your taste buds.
The colours of Thai food
Thai cuisine has taken over the world in the past decades. There are restaurants in most big cities around the globe. Thai food boasts a unique blend of flavours: sweet, spicy, and sour, with zesty herbs and aromatic spices. It is nutritious, easy to make, and delicious. Thai cuisine is also one of the healthiest in the world. The most popular dishes include som tam (a spicy salad with green papaya and vegetables), tom kha kai (coconut chicken soup), pad thai (stir-fried rice noodles), khao man gai (chicken rice), and mango sticky rice (a traditional dessert).
Thais typically eat three meals and snack a lot throughout the day, which is quite understandable, considering the variety of snacks you can buy on the go. They also love family-style meals, dining out in a group of family and friends.
A diet staple is rice. All around Thailand you can hear people greeting each other with the phrase that translates as “Have you eaten rice yet?”. Many Thais eat rice for almost every meal. Thai food is eaten with a spoon and a fork, while chopsticks are usually used when eating noodles.
Phuket has plenty of restaurant options, from cheap to high-end—there is something for every wallet and palate. Apart from the local cuisine, you can find a plethora of international cuisines.
Adjusting to new cuisine
Moving abroad is an exciting experience. It means making a huge shift in your habits and adjusting to so many new things. Food is a big part of our life, so changing your diet might be quite a challenge. Here are some tips how to make this shift easier:
- Be adventurous and open-minded.
Thai food may be immensely different from what you are used to, and it is part of its exotic appeal. The only way to know if you like something is to give it a taste. Keep an open mind, expand your palate, and enjoy the novelty.
- Give yourself and your body time.
It may be overwhelming, so you—and your digestive system—need some time to get used to your new diet. Do not put too much pressure on yourself, make little steps and see what you like and do not like.
- Look for food recommendations.
Ask your local and international friends around or read reviews online. You are in for incredible discoveries and your new go-to dishes.
- Research supermarkets.
You will need some research before you navigate supermarkets with ease. Find out what staples of your diet are available and what locals consider staples. Learn Thai names or keep an online translator at hand.
- Indulge your craving for food from home.
You will miss your favourite foods, do not feel like you have to switch to entirely new cuisine right away. Change your eating habits one bite at a time.
Where to buy groceries
There is quite a selection of different size stores selling domestic and imported items. Nowadays, you can find a wide selection of products, including snacks and groceries from other countries. Here are the top stores in Phuket:
- Tops is a popular chain that offers all the staples and a variety of imported products. Tops Robinson Phuket is located in Robinson Shopping Mall in the centre of Phuket Town. There are also Tops daily mini supermarkets that are open from 6 am to 12 am.
- Makro is another great option with competitive prices. It is a wholesale store that is perfect for those who prefer to buy in bulk. You may want to apply for a membership card to receive benefits and buy their specials.
- Villa Market is a store you may want to visit if you ever feel homesick. It is a paradise if you are looking for international products. It is on a pricey side but the selection of imported and local items it offers is definitely worth it.
- Tesco Lotus has a number of hypermarkets, supermarkets, and convenience stores across the island. The smallest stores are open 24/7.
- Big C is Thailand’s leading grocery chain that offers a good range of basic everyday items.
These stores also offer delivery service so you can avoid traffic and crowds and order whatever you need from the comfort of your home.
Shopping at markets
Markets in Thailand have their unique appeal. Locals and expats alike love browsing the amazing selection of food and snacks. If you cook at home, markets are a top spot to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, meat, herbs, and spices at reasonable prices. You can also find ready-made dishes and drinks.
- Phuket Town Central Market is located in the heart of Phuket Town and is the island’s largest market. It is the best place to get a glimpse of authentic Thai life.
- Banzaan Fresh Market offers a wide range of quality items. Come in the morning to find stalls loaded with fresh produce, and at night to try a variety of street food.
- Kathu Fresh Market is another great market to buy fresh produce and have a quick bite. The assortment is wider in morning hours as well.
- Chillva Market is a trendy night market with a wide choice of items and activities, and tons of street food. You can also enjoy some live music here.
- Phuket Indy Night Market is a small bustling market hosting independent traders. You can buy handmade pieces and have a nice meal while listening to live music. It is open Wednesday to Friday.
A taste of expat life
Living overseas is a unique experience packed with new things—including food—to try. Thailand is an amazing expat-friendly country, with Phuket one of the top places to visit and live. If you have set your eyes on this destination, check out Thailand-Real.Estate where you are sure to find your future home. If you dream of living in a beautiful villa, enjoying a warm climate, and eating delicious food, make a step towards your new life right now.