A Utah family who moved to Thailand in 2024 returned home after eight months due to visa complications and work challenges. Braydon Barrett, 32, his wife, and their son initially planned to settle in Pattaya, a city near Bangkok, but faced unexpected hurdles. The decision to move abroad was years in the making, fueled by Barrett’s wife’s desire to live outside the US and the flexibility of his online fitness coaching business.
A move inspired by family and flexibility
Barrett, who runs an online fitness coaching business, and his wife, a stay-at-home mom, had long discussed living abroad. After their son’s birth in 2023, they decided to take the leap. Thailand’s visa options seemed feasible, and the family embarked on a 10-day scouting trip to explore potential locations. They chose Pattaya, a two-hour drive from Bangkok, and prepared for the move by downsizing their belongings to six suitcases and a storage unit. On their son’s first birthday in April 2024, they left Utah for Thailand.
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Visa troubles and unexpected detours
Upon arrival, Barrett realized a critical mistake: their visas only allowed a 30-day stay, not the expected 90 days. This error forced them to reconsider their plans. After unsuccessful attempts to secure a long-term visa in Thailand, they moved to Malaysia for three months. During their stay in Malaysia, Thailand introduced the Destination Thailand Visa, a five-year option for remote workers. The family applied from Vietnam, their next stop, but faced delays with their son’s application. They received approval while en route to the Philippines, but the stress of constant travel took its toll.
The return to Utah and lessons learned
A late-night hotel issue in Manila became the breaking point. Despite having the necessary visas, Barrett decided they needed a break and returned to Utah. Managing his business across time zones proved challenging, with early mornings and late-night calls becoming the norm. The hotel incident was the culmination of months of stress, and Barrett felt he couldn’t continue without a respite. The decision to return home was difficult but necessary for their well-being.
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Back in Utah, the family felt a mix of emotions. While they cherished their time in Asia, the experience was not without difficulties. Barrett noted the relaxed and courteous culture in Asia, particularly the kindness shown to their son. The family’s visas remain valid for five years, leaving open the possibility of a return to Thailand. Barrett reflects that, had it not been for the visa mistake, they would likely still be there. Despite the challenges, the experience strengthened his bond with his wife and left them with a deeper appreciation for each other and their time abroad. The door remains open for a future return to Thailand, where they hope to create more lasting memories.
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