Family Leaves UK Behind for Affordable Life in Thailand

A family from the United Kingdom has made a significant lifestyle change by relocating to Asia in search of a more affordable and fulfilling life. Amelia Wray, 31, and her partner Billy Evans, 37, decided to leave their home country after feeling constrained by their demanding work schedules and the limitations on family time. The couple, along with their three young children—Archie, four, Annie, two, and Albert, one—are now embracing a new adventure in Thailand.

In July 2023, the family traveled to Thailand for seven weeks to assess whether they could envision a permanent move. After falling in love with the culture and lifestyle, they took decisive steps to sell their five-bedroom house in the UK. The sale proceeded rapidly, as they found a cash buyer, allowing them to finance their new life abroad. On November 4, they departed from Heathrow Airport, leaving behind the life they once knew.

Amelia reported that their monthly expenses in Thailand are estimated at £1,250, a stark contrast to the £2,500 they spent back in the UK. She expressed, “We felt like we only got one day a week as a family on a Sunday—it was just not cutting it. We wanted to show our kids they don’t need to follow what society tells you to do.”

While living in the UK, Amelia worked as a self-employed hairdresser, and Billy was employed in telecommunications. Together, they were clocking in over 108 hours of work each week. Now, the family is focusing on acquiring new skills online while traveling, with Amelia retraining as a life coach and Billy planning to embark on his next venture shortly.

Settling into a New Routine in Thailand

The family packed light for their new life, bringing only two rucksacks and two suitcases filled with essentials. They have stored sentimental items back in the UK at a cost of £160 per month. Their children will engage in “pop-up hubs” providing educational programs while being home-schooled by their parents.

Their journey in Thailand begins in Bangkok, where they plan to spend a week before exploring northern destinations like Chiang Mai and then heading south to the islands. Amelia noted, “We’ll do about three months there and move on to other places in Southeast Asia.”

The family’s lifestyle change has sparked varied reactions from friends and family. Amelia described the response as “a mixture,” with most offering their support while some expressed concern over their decision to sell their home. She acknowledged that it can be challenging for their immediate family to process the move, given the distance.

In Bangkok, the family is excited about the vibrant culture and opportunities for exploration. “This city never sleeps—it’s incredible you can do what you want any time of day,” Amelia stated. She emphasized the family-friendly atmosphere, asserting, “People have this perception that Thailand is for a certain type of men, but it’s so family-oriented; the kids thrive here.”

Financial Transition and Future Plans

The family’s financial strategy in Thailand reflects a significant reduction in living costs. Their weekly grocery bill is approximately £200, with accommodation expenses ranging between £550 and £650, including utilities. They plan to allocate £150 to £200 each week for dining out, ensuring they can enjoy meals together.

Their total monthly expenditure, including phone bills, car insurance, and recreational activities, is expected to remain under £1,250, a substantial decrease compared to their previous lifestyle. The family aims to partake in low-cost or free activities, such as visiting beaches, waterfalls, temples, and local markets.

As they prepare to celebrate Christmas and New Year in Hua Hin on November 26, the family remains open to new experiences. They intend to embrace a flexible travel schedule, moving from place to place without a fixed plan. Amelia concluded, “We feel we can give them more of our time and be more present because it’s more affordable to live a good life out here.”

With their adventurous spirit and commitment to family, Amelia and Billy are pioneering a new chapter that reflects their values and aspirations, demonstrating that a fulfilling life can be achieved beyond conventional boundaries.