Expat Life
Life and Work in Thailand: An Interview with an Islander from Ukraine
Moving to Thailand can be for you not only a pleasant experience of living in a different environment (frankly, a more pleasant environment) but also an occasion to meet interesting people – both residents and foreigners, as well as compatriots. After all, leaving the city in which you lived, you leave most of your friends and buddies there. That is why it is possible and necessary to get acquainted with new people abroad.
I met Vlad Levkutnik, a resident of Kyiv, who came to Thailand 5 months ago and is going to stay here for another month, after which he will go to learn Indonesian Bali. Vlad is a web developer and a former student who got support from essay help. At the moment, he is freelancing on two foreign projects. Before coming to Thailand, he lived only a few months in Moscow, so Koh Samui can be called the first long-term experience of Vlad’s life abroad.
How did you decide to go to Asia for six months? What was the reason?
It was not a reason but a combination of many circumstances. I have long dreamed of going to warmer climes and living on the seashore. Not so long ago, I switched to freelance, which now allows me to live and work without being tied to a specific place. Well, I have long wanted to change something radically in my life. As soon as there were like-minded people, and my friend suggested to go here for the winter, I did not hesitate to agree.
By what principle was the country chosen, why Thailand?
Last spring, at the suggestion of friends, I went with them on a small tour of Thailand and Cambodia. I didn’t know anything about Asia before that trip, but after that, I knew I wanted to live here. Why Thailand? Because Thailand is ahead of the rest of Asia in most points of quality of life. Thailand is also a country of smiles. That’s probably why.
During what period did you start preparing for the trip? What were the difficulties in its organization?
The idea was hatched for 4 months, and the real preparation began in 2 months. There were no special problems in the organization. How to make a visa, what the first steps on arrival need to do – everyone knew it. We are lucky that our company has people who can find any interesting information on the Internet. So the overall picture of the move was clear. The main difficulty was in the head 🙂 It took me a long time to come to terms with the fact that I was going to get rid of unnecessary things, move out of my rented apartment and go to Asia for at least six months.
What was the first thing you did when you came to Thailand?
The first thing I did was inhale the strange, but already familiar smell of Bangkok Airport, well, I checked myself. I’m kidding 🙂 In general, at first, I had to be nervous and fuss about housing, of course. But when everything settled down, and I was finally able to relax, I went and bought a guitar.
Where did you settle on the island and how did you settle in your new place?
Since we were traveling for a long time, we decided not to risk searching for housing via the Internet (I did not want to buy a pig in a poke), so we rented a hotel for 3 days, which we devoted to an independent search for housing. The task was not easy.
First of all, a lot of us came, and it was impossible to find housing for everyone in one place, so in the end, we had to divide into 2 groups.
Secondly, it is very difficult, having arrived from Ukrainian autumn to the heart of tropical Thailand, to immediately plunge into the hustle and bustle of finding housing – there is acclimatization, and a million new impressions and a natural desire to relax, because we are already here, on a tropical island!
In general, the search for our first home took 4 days. It turned out to be a large two-story house on the territory of the resort in the southeast of the island (just south of Lamai Beach). The house was perfect for 5 people, and we immediately agreed when we saw it. I didn’t have to settle in much. The house had everything and even more that could be needed for life.
However, after 3 months, we had to move to a new house, because 2 guys who lived with us were returning home, and it was already expensive to rent such a house for three. We looked at the second house when we were looking for the first one, so we only needed to settle the nuances of its lease.
This house is located in the northeast of the island, just near the place where the friends with whom we flew here together live. This house is the exact opposite of the first one, except that it is also two-story. A very simple, typical Thai shophouse, with a summer kitchen, and with a view of beautiful sunsets and a Large Buddha on the horizon.
What does your workplace look like and what can’t you do without at work?
In this regard, nothing special. My workplace is my laptop, a comfortable desk and chair, and the Internet.
What does your usual weekday on the island consist of?
A normal day? Perhaps I do not have such a thing. Every day is different, and the events are different. So if you put together everything I do from time to time and put it together in one day, you get the following:
I wake up at 8-9 am;
I meditate;
I walk to the sea and swam;
take a ride to the market for fresh vegetables or fruit for breakfast;
a little work, if you’re in the mood;
walking on a rope;
I play the guitar;
we go to the beach with the guys;
lunch! 🙂
we can work a little more while the heat is on;
the heat subsided – I went for a ride on a skateboard;
we got out into the sunset;
evening gatherings, or ” walking street”, where you can take a walk, eat various local goodies and listen to live music.
However, so that all this and in one day, it was probably only a couple of times. Usually, someone is lazy, there is no work or too much, it is raining – you will not go anywhere, and so on. But a perfect weekday looks like this 🙂
Has your lifestyle changed since moving to Thailand? Are there any new habits, activities, daily rituals?
Yes, there is a good habit of eating a lot of fruit. I also have a habit of taking a dip in the sea in the morning, but I’m afraid that it will also disappear as it came when I move to a place where there is no sea 30 meters from the house. But I can say for sure that something has changed significantly in my head after moving here.
What do you miss on the island? Are there things/people you miss?
People, of course, I miss a lot of people. And what is missing is places for walking: parks, squares or ordinary streets where you can walk in the shade of trees. There is no way to walk here at all, even there are no sidewalks on the island. That’s what I miss.
Do you have any recommendations for people who want to move to Thailand?
Don’t forget to stock up on a good mosquito repellent!
And if you are serious, then do not think that this is impossible. For some reason, many people think so. If there is a desire, then everything becomes possible. Weigh all the pros and cons, prepare well, think through everything to the smallest detail, and see how everything happens by itself, and you are already halfway to Thailand.
If you can imagine Paradise as a place, then literally add left-hand traffic to it and you get Thailand.
(CTN News) – We depend on the kitchen’s garbage disposal. John Hammes created garbage disposals in 1927, and while their design has largely remained the same since then, their use has increased to the point where they are now a necessity in almost every kitchen. The following guides will give you all the information you need to select and install a new disposal, properly operate your disposal, and troubleshoot problems.
1. Garbage Disposal: How It Works
A garbage disposal is installed under a sink and contains a grinding chamber for collecting solid food waste. An impeller plate, or spinning disc, pushes food waste against the outer wall of the grinding chamber when the disposal is turned on. Water washes the food through holes in the chamber wall by pulverising it into tiny bits. Disposals indeed have blunt metal “teeth,” known as impellers, on the impeller plate but do not have sharp blades.
2. Garbage Disposal Mistakes You Should Never Make
There is a difference between a regular trash can and a garbage disposal. You shouldn’t just toss everything down the drain, even leftover food and liquids. Finding out what goes in the trash and how to use the garbage disposal properly will help keep things running smoothly and free of jams. In most cases, you shouldn’t add fibrous or rough food scraps, potato peels, oil, grease, pits, or other sharp or hard items.
3. The Troubleshooting Guide for Garbage Disposals
If you take the time to diagnose and fix the most common issues with your trash disposal, you can avoid spending hundreds of dollars on repairs or a new device. Jams are the most common cause of disposal issues.1 Ignoring a jam and restarting the machine repeatedly can burn up the motor, but fixing a stuck disposal is easy.
4. Clogged garbage disposals can be repaired
The most common cause of disposal clogs is improper foods, such as grease, potato peels, and hard-to-grind foods. Clogs can occur in the disposal itself, but most often, they occur in the drainpipe downstream. You can prevent clogs by removing problem scraps from the disposal and throwing them in the trash. Maintain a clean environment as well.
5. Disposal of Garbage: Selecting a System
When selecting a new trash disposal, you can be as general or as specific as you like. You may get by by purchasing a generic model from your neighbourhood home centre or appliance store. Conversely, you can find a model with all the characteristics you need by researching the most recent additions to some disposals, such as upscale stainless steel grinding chambers or more insulation to reduce noise.
6. Installation of garbage disposals
Even if it doesn’t require much plumbing or electrical wiring knowledge, installing a garbage disposal is not a picnic. Most reasonably handy homeowners can install a new disposal in a matter of hours.
7. Removing garbage from landfills
When replacing a sink or a broken garbage disposal, it is essential to remove the disposal first. For easier disassembly and removal, many disposal models have a mechanism that allows you to swiftly detach the motor unit—the bulky component—from the washbasin assembly.
As each situation is unique, pay attention to your sink’s outlets, power source, and other specific details when researching garbage disposals. Based on these details, you can determine what kind of garbage disposal you can get and how easy it will be to install and repair it.
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(CTN News) – Are you feeling lost in the maze of financial decisions? Do you struggle with making a plan for your finances? Financial planning ensures a stable financial future in today’s fast-paced world.
This article will discuss the importance of financial planning, the key steps to creating a financial plan, and the common mistakes to avoid. Let’s dive in!
Introduction to Financial Planning
Financial planning is the process of managing your finances to achieve your financial goals.
It involves assessing your current financial situation, setting financial goals, creating a plan to achieve them, and regularly reviewing and adjusting your plan.
Why Financial Planning is Important
Financial planning is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps you achieve your financial goals, whether buying a house, paying off debt, or saving for retirement.
Secondly, it helps you manage risk and uncertainty by ensuring you have a financial cushion in case of emergencies or unexpected events.
Thirdly, it helps you make informed financial decisions by providing a framework for evaluating your options.
Key Steps to Creating a Financial Plan
- Assess your current financial situation: Start by calculating your net worth, which is your assets minus your liabilities. This will give you a clear understanding of your current financial position.
- Set financial goals: Identify your short-term and long-term financial goals. Short-term goals may include paying off debt or saving for a vacation, while long-term goals may include retirement or purchasing a house.
- Create a budget: A budget is a plan for income and expenses. It helps you identify areas where you can save money and prioritize your spending.
- Choose the right investment strategy: There are various investment options available, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate. Choose a strategy that aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
- Review and adjust your plan regularly: Your financial situation and goals may change over time, so it’s important to review and adjust your plan regularly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Financial Planning
- Not having a plan: Many people make the mistake of not having a financial plan. Without a plan, it’s challenging to achieve your financial goals.
- Overlooking risks: Financial planning should also involve managing risks, such as unexpected expenses or job loss.
- Not diversifying investments: Investing all your money in one asset class, such as stocks, can be risky. Diversify your investments to reduce risk.
- Failing to review and adjust the plan: A financial plan is not a one-time exercise. Review and adjust your plan regularly to align with your current financial situation and goals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, financial planning is critical to achieving your financial goals and ensuring a stable financial future.
By following the key steps to creating a financial plan and avoiding common mistakes, you can take control of your finances and make informed financial decisions.
FAQs
- What is financial planning?
- Financial planning is the process of managing your finances to achieve your financial goals. It involves assessing your current financial situation, setting financial goals, creating a plan to achieve them, and regularly reviewing and adjusting your plan.
- Why is financial planning important?
- Financial planning is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps you achieve your financial goals. Secondly, it helps you manage risk and uncertainty. Thirdly, it helps you make informed financial decisions.
- What are the key steps to creating a financial plan?
- The key steps to creating a financial plan include assessing your current financial situation, setting financial goals, creating a budget, choosing the right investment strategy, and reviewing and adjusting your plan regularly.
- What are the common mistakes to avoid in financial planning?
- Common mistakes to avoid in financial planning include not having a plan, overlooking risks, not diversifying investments, and failing to review and adjust the plan regularly.
- How often should I review my financial plan?
- Reviewing your financial plan at least once a year or when a significant change in your financial situation or goals is recommended.
- Is it necessary to hire a financial planner?
- Hiring a financial planner is unnecessary, but it can be beneficial, especially if you have complex financial goals or investments.
- Can financial planning help me save money?
- Financial planning can help you identify areas where you can save money and prioritize spending to achieve your financial goals.
- How do I choose the right investment strategy?
- Choosing the right investment strategy depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. It’s essential to do your research and seek professional advice if needed.
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Sewing Machines
What this post isn’t, I’ll tell you right away. An expert sewist did not create this post with years of experience with various sewing machine brands.
That being said, this piece is created by a newbie sewist who was recently in your shoes, went down a rabbit hole studying machines, and would want to share her discoveries in case they can assist.
What to Look for When Buying a Sewing Machine
The features you require will be determined by the type of projects you intend to do. As a sustainable design creator, I’m mostly interested in manufacturing and upcycling garments; thus, my experiences will be geared around that.
Longevity
If at all possible, avoid small sewing machines. These devices are extremely portable and inexpensive, but they are not built to last.
I tried to sew on my family’s 10-year-old Shark Euro Pro X, and it couldn’t perform a good stitch at all, even though it had scarcely been used when it was new (even my sewing instructor couldn’t get it to operate).
You should also evaluate the projects you want to work on as you develop your expertise. If you’re serious about sewing, it can be worth investing in a fancier machine to “grow into it” rather than updating afterward.
New vs. used/vintage/refurbished.
Buying a used machine is a terrific method to save money if you’re starting. Reliable new machines will cost at least $150-200, but a nice used one will cost between $50 and $100.
Many sewists prefer old machines to current ones since newer machines include plastic parts that don’t last as long. I had planned to buy an antique Kenmore for $75 on Offerup, but the seller ghosted me, so it didn’t work out.
I was also thinking about acquiring a vintage Singer, but it didn’t have all of the features I wanted, and I was concerned about maintaining it. Note that many older machines are simpler and may not have as many stitches.
If you do decide to buy a secondhand machine, I recommend visiting locally so you can ask the vendor to demonstrate its functionality.
If you buy online, it may be best to acquire a manufacturer-refurbished machine rather than a used one because individual sellers may not know how to properly pack their equipment, and you won’t be able to verify that it works.
Computerized vs. mechanical
Because computerized machines have a computer, they have additional stitch possibilities and can automatically alter thread tension.
They are known to function more smoothly, but with all of their possibilities, they can be overwhelming, and if the computer inside breaks, it will be an expensive repair.
Mechanical devices are simpler and less expensive, but they lack functionalities. It all comes down to personal preference because I selected a mechanical machine for my first machine. All the possibilities I describe will be mechanical, but remember that a computerized machine may still be your best option.
Straight stitch and zigzag stitch
As a novice, you only need a good straight stitch and a zigzag stitch. If you don’t have a serger and want to finish the seams/edges of the fabric, a zigzag stitch is essential. Most current sewing machines include at least these two stitches, although older machines may have a straight stitch.
Stitch length adjustment
Changing the width of your stitch can be useful in creating ruffles or working with more delicate fabrics. Some basic machines don’t allow you to do this, including modern ones, so keep an eye out for it.
Drop-in bobbin
Drop-in bobbins are often easier to use because the tension is automatically adjusted, and you can see how much thread is left through the glass plate.
Front-loading bobbins can be more difficult to adjust, but some sewists claim it depends on your experience.
A TikTok follower advised me that front-loading bobbins sometimes take a long time to correct, so I went with a machine with a drop-in bobbin.
Automatic buttonhole
If you plan to sew a lot of clothing with buttons, having a 1-step buttonhole machine can help you make cleaner buttonholes. Many machines feature a 4-step buttonhole that requires human stops and readjustments.
Needle threader
Some people can thread their needles by hand, but if you don’t have quick fingers or good vision, opt for a machine with a needle threader.
Sewing Machines for Beginners
This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a tiny percentage on any purchases you make at no additional cost. This cash permits me to maintain my site, which I greatly appreciate.
The links above the sewing machine names go to Amazon because there are loads of reviews and extensive information, but I advise you to buy from smaller businesses if possible.
There are even more recommendations for machine shops after the piece!
1. Brother ST371HD ($200)
The Brother ST371HD is a heavy-duty machine made to sew through thick fabrics. When Angelina of BlueprintDIY tested it, it could sew through 10 layers of denim! This machine had everything I wanted, including:
- drop-in bobbin
- automatic buttonhole
- straight and zigzag stitch (among many others)
- stitch length adjustment
- needle threader
I almost bought it, but I ultimately went with a higher-end Janome (it’s last on this list since it’s the most expensive).
2. Singer Heavy Duty 4452 ($220)
I considered buying a manufacturer-reconditioned Singer 4452 on eBay ($160), but I opted against it after hearing many people say to avoid new Singer machines.
This laptop contained all of the features I desired (though I found the grey color ugly). Because Singer is such a well-known brand, many setups and troubleshooting videos should be available.
The machine has a high rating on Amazon (4.6 stars and 6,500+ ratings), indicating that it has helped many people. It’s also heavy-duty, which means it’s built to last and can sew through thick fabrics.
I didn’t want to take the chance after wasting hours with my family’s faulty (non-Singer) small machine.
3. Janome Magnolia 7318 ($230+)
This machine was one of the former picks of the NYTimes Wirecutter, which does in-depth, blinded tests to provide trusted appliance recommendations.
The Janome Magnolia 7318 is no longer in production, but you can still find new and refurbished models from $220-300. I was seriously considering this one, No automated buttonhole or needle threader.
4. Bernette 35 ($300)
Bernette is a brand under Bernina, one of the most trusted sewing machine companies. Their machines are said to be smooth, reliable, and high-quality. I used a computerized Bernina when I went to a local sewing studio was lovely.
That said, this particular model has a front-loading bobbin, which may be trickier to get used to than the drop-in bobbin. It also has a 4-step buttonhole instead of an automatic one.
5. Janome Sewist 725S ($375) – my machine
I was persuaded into buying this machine by the woman at Ken’s Sewing Center, an online sewing retailer based in Alabama. I called to ask about their refurbished Janome Magnolia 7318, and she upsold me to get the Janome Sewist 725S (after I slept on it for a night).
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