I know a Guy...

A popular phase you will here when living abroad;
"I know a guy, who knows a guy, who said the best way to fix your problem is..."
This type of comment is your cue to look elsewhere for advice...
Last updated on August 29th, 2025 at 09:07 am
When in Thailand, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with local customs, legal requirements, and logistical details such as visa processes, healthcare systems, transportation options, and cultural norms to ensure a smooth transition and avoid unexpected challenges. When receiving advice and hearing phrases like “I know a guy, knows another guy, who said they can take care of it” if the fees to do this are over 15,000 Baht (450 USD) to resolve typical Expat requirement tasks, this should raise red flags about the quality and legitimacy of the service, as such high fees are generally unjustified for routine tasks unless you’re correcting a serious mistake. For most expats, paying these amounts for simple conveniences is not cost-effective, and such offers often indicate subpar options. If you’re comfortable spending that amount for a quick fix that saves only a few hours, it’s a personal choice, but typically, better and more affordable options are available, and detailed guidance on such matters is beyond the scope of this website.
Living in Thailand offers remarkable flexibility and freedom, allowing residents to navigate a variety of options for accomplishing tasks, which can be both advantageous and challenging; however, this diversity in approaches means that understanding the specific “Thai requirements” can be complicated, as there are multiple pathways and informal practices that may differ from official procedures, necessitating careful research and local insight to ensure compliance and smooth experiences.
Living in Thailand can also be challenging for some, especially when encountering a cultural tendency where many individuals believe they are experts on everyday tasks, often offering advice that isn’t always well-informed or optimal. This phenomenon may stem from Thailand being one of the biggest tourism location in the world and many scammers are making income of tourism as well as the majority of Expats are part of a strong social community in which humors of how to get things done spread like wildfire. The language and cultural barriers also contribute to a collective approach to knowledge sharing, but it can lead to frustration for those seeking reliable guidance. To navigate this, it’s helpful to consult multiple sources, including official guides, expatriate communities, or online forums, to gather well-rounded information and make informed decisions amidst varying advice.
This website provides a curated list of the most straightforward, affordable, legal, and efficient methods for common expatriate tasks, emphasizing cost-effectiveness and simplicity tailored to the majority of users. While alternative options exist, the methods featured are selected for their ease and practicality, helping expatriates avoid unnecessary expenses and complications—without breaking the bank.
Click here for a humorous when someone says “who knows a guy”
