In a humorous twist on the expat experience, a Singaporean man residing in Thailand recently shared his thoughts on the challenges of long-term living in a foreign land. After a month of enjoying the vibrant culture and beautiful scenery, he found himself feeling a bit jaded, stating, “After a month, see Siam bu also sian.” This sentiment resonates with many who have ventured abroad, only to discover that the initial excitement can fade over time.
Here are what netizens say: “First month: Pad Thai. Second month: Sad Thai.”
“Wah, finally realise cannot eat tom yum every day ah?”
“Every day massage until sian also quite atas problem hor.”
“You go escape stress, stress go follow you — clingy sia.”
“He thought he in movie — now realise is drama series.”
“Bro find out the hard way: Thailand not all smiles when the bills come.”
“Go Thailand for fun, end up doing laundry and washing toilet.”
“Move to Thailand, still got Monday blues — some things universal.”
“Even paradise become HDB when you stay too long.”
“At first go for sabai sabai, now kena sian sian.”
“Thought everyday Songkran, end up everyday kena rain.”
The man’s comment reflects a common phenomenon known as the “honeymoon phase,” where everything seems new and exciting at first, but eventually gives way to the mundane realities of daily life. While Thailand is renowned for its stunning beaches, delicious street food, and friendly locals, the novelty can wear off, leading to a sense of ennui. The allure of exotic locales can quickly diminish when faced with the routine of everyday responsibilities, such as work, chores, and the inevitable homesickness that can set in.
In response to his candid remark, many netizens chimed in with their own humorous takes on the situation. Comments ranged from playful jabs about the limitations of paradise to relatable anecdotes about the challenges of living abroad. One commenter quipped, “Wah bro, you unlock next level liao — from playboy to pai seh boy,” highlighting the transition from carefree tourist to a more grounded reality. Another chimed in, “Everyday buffet also will jelak one lah… even if the food got legs,” emphasizing how even the most enticing experiences can become tiresome over time.
The Singaporean’s experience serves as a reminder that while travel can be enriching, it is not without its challenges. The initial thrill of exploring a new culture can be overshadowed by the realities of daily life, leading to a longing for the familiar comforts of home. As many expats can attest, the grass may seem greener on the other side, but it often comes with its own set of challenges.