What are the typical foods in Thailand: a guide for digital nomads

If you're considering working remotely in Thailand, understanding the local food culture helps not only with adaptation but also with the everyday economy. With dishes costing an average of between R$ 8 and R$ 40, eating well in the country can be surprisingly affordable.

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Why Thailand attracts so many digital nomads

Thailand has a unique combination of factors that make it irresistible for remote professionals. O low cost of living, developed digital infrastructure and DTV visa facilities create an ideal environment for those who work online.

In addition, the rich gastronomic diversity allows digital nomads to explore new flavors without compromising their budget. In cities such as Chiang Mai and Bangkok, you can find everything from authentic street food to sophisticated restaurants.

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Essential Thai dishes

Pad Thai - the most famous dish

Pad Thai is probably the first dish that comes to mind when we think of Thailand. These braised rice noodles combine:

• Fine rice noodles
• Shrimps or chicken
• Scrambled eggs
• Bean sprouts
• Minced peanuts
• Bittersweet sauce with tamarind

Average price: 60-120 bahts (R$ 8-16) Where to find: Virtually anywhere, from street stalls to restaurants

Tom Yum Goong - the spicy soup

This soup perfectly represents the Thai balance of flavors: sweet, sour, salty and spicy. Key ingredients include:

• Fresh prawns
• Mushrooms
• Lemongrass
• Kaffir lime leaves
• Galanga
• Chili pepper

Tip for nomads: It is rich in vitamin C and may help strengthen immunity during adaptation to the tropical climate.

Som Tam - green papaya salad

Refreshing and nutritious, this salad is perfect for hot Thai days. The traditional recipe takes:

• Grated green papaya
• Cherry tomatoes
• Green pod
• Roasted peanuts
• Fish sauce
• Lime juice
• Palm sugar

Benefit: Low calorie and rich in fiber, ideal for maintaining energy during long work sessions.

Massaman Curry - the sweet curry

Less spicy than other Thai curries, Massaman is perfect for more sensitive palates:

• Beef or chicken
• potatoes
• Peanut
• Coconut milk
• Aromatic spices

Curiosity: It has Persian and Indian influences, showing the cultural diversity of Thailand.

Mango Sticky Rice - traditional dessert

To finish off meals, there's nothing better than this dessert:

• Ripe sliced mango
• Glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk
• Sweet coconut syrup

Ideal season: Between March and June, when mangoes are in season.

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How to Navigate Thai Flavors

Pepper levels

Thai food can be extremely spicy for Brazilian palates. Learn these useful words:

• “Never pet” = Not spicy
• “Pet Nit Noy” = Slightly spicy
• “Pet Maak” = Very spicy

Common Ingredients to Know

• Nam Pla: Fish sauce (base ingredient)
• Galanga: Similar to ginger, but milder
• Lemongrass: Aromatic citrus herb
• Kaffir lime leaves: Aromatic curry leaves

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Best Places to Eat as a Digital Nomad

Food courts in shopping malls

They offer:

• Air-conditioned environment
• Free Wi-Fi
• Variety of options
• Affordable prices (40-80 bahts per dish)

Night markets

Ideal for:

• Try authentic street food
• Socialize with other travelers
• Very low prices (20-60 bahts)
• Unique cultural atmosphere

Local restaurants (not touristic)

Advantages:

• More authentic food
• Local prices
• Opportunity to practice basic Thai
• Genuine cultural experience

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Gradual adaptation to flavors

For newcomers to digital nomads, it is recommended to:

1. Start with milder dishes like Pad Thai and Massaman Curry
2. Try less spicy versions Of the traditional dishes
3. Vary gradually introducing more spices
4. Always keep water or coconut milk Close by
5. Watch how the locals eat To learn cultural etiquette

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Cost-effectiveness of food

Food represents one of the biggest financial advantages for digital nomads in Thailand. Comparing with Brazil:

Street food: 30-60% cheaper

‍Local restaurants: 40-70% more economical

‍Supermarkets: Tropical fruits up to 80% cheaper

This significant savings allows remote professionals to maintain a high dietary standard on a reduced budget, as detailed in Complete guide to the costs of living in Thailand.

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Food health care

Gradual adaptation

The Brazilian digestive system needs to adapt to the new diet. Important tips:

• Always drink filtered or bottled water
• Avoid ice in the early days
• Choose establishments with movement
• Observe that the food is well cooked

Ingredients that may cause discomfort

• Very strong peppers: May cause stomach problems
• Excessive coconut milk: Rich in saturated fat
• Raw seafood: Higher risk of contamination

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Vegetarians and vegans in Thailand

Thai cuisine offers excellent options for vegetarians:

Naturally vegetarian dishes:

• Pad See Ew (with vegetables)
• Green Curry (vegetarian version)
• Som Tam (without fish sauce)

Specialty restaurants:

Especially in areas with a concentration of expatriates, such as best cities for digital nomads.

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Thai food label

During meals:

• Use fork to push food into the spoon
• Never point with toothpicks
• Share dishes when in a group
• Always leave some on the plate (a sign of satisfaction)

Payment:

• It is common to divide the bill equally
• Gratuities are not required but are appreciated
• Many places accept digital payment

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Enjoying the dining experience

Cooking classes

Many digital nomads take the opportunity to:

• Learn traditional techniques
• Discover local ingredients
• Create social connections
• Develop new skill

Ingredient markets

Visiting local markets offers:

• Fresh and cheap ingredients
• Cultural immersion
• Opportunity to cook at home
• Additional savings in the budget

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Combining work and gastronomy

For digital nomads, eating can become part of the productive routine:

Restaurants with Wi-Fi:

• Many cafés offer a work environment
• Food courts are ideal for casual gatherings
• Coworkings often partner with restaurants

Flexible hours:

• Street food available 24 hours
• Delivery apps that are very efficient
• Night markets after work

The choice of Thailand as a destination for remote work goes far beyond the tax benefits of Seen DTV. The rich gastronomic culture offers a daily experience of discovery, economy and pleasure that enriches the professional and personal journey.

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Comparison with other destinations

When we compare Thailand's gastronomic advantages with other popular destinations for digital nomads, some differences become evident. While countries such as Spain offers similar visa facilities, Thailand stands out for its culinary diversity and cost-benefit diet.

The variety of flavors, fresh ingredients, and affordable prices make Thailand a unique gastronomic destination for remote professionals seeking quality of life without compromising their budget.

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Be Easy: your gateway to Thailand

The gastronomic journey in Thailand begins long before the first local meal. With the Be Easy's DTV visa program for digital nomads, you receive comprehensive guidance on cultural adaptation, including personalized gastronomic tips.

Our specialized team understands that food is a fundamental part of the experience of living abroad. That's why we offer support from initial planning to the first days in the land of smiles, ensuring that your transition is smooth and pleasurable.

Contact us and discover how we can help you experience not only remote work in Thailand, but all the cultural and gastronomic wealth that this extraordinary country offers.