My Story with Asia: From a Life-Changing Trip to Living as an Expat
An expat’s perspective from Thailand
My name is Oliver, and as an expat living in Thailand, I created Portail Asie to share my discoveries, my daily life on the ground, and to offer an alternative to often impersonal content. My goal? To provide reliable, first-hand, and current information to anyone looking to explore Southeast Asia differently.
I built this site as a trusted guide for anyone who wants to go beyond a simple trip: to understand cultural codes, avoid common pitfalls, and discover local wonders with respect. Here, we even explore unique places, like a resort built on an abandoned cruise ship! A mysterious place I had the chance to explore personally.
Portail Asie is a bridge between your curiosity and my on-the-ground experience.
My Journey to Asia: From a Spark to a Lifelong Passion
It all began in 2009, during my very first trip to Thailand. That month-and-a-half experience was a real turning point. I explored Bangkok, Phuket, Ko Phi Phi, Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Samui, and other iconic places, falling in love with the local culture, its cuisine, and its breathtaking landscapes.
Since 2018, I have been returning to Asia regularly, with a curious and respectful outlook. My longest stay lasted 16 consecutive months, notably in Bali during the pandemic. I also discovered cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap in Cambodia, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in Vietnam, and gems in the Philippines like Manila, Cebu, Bohol, and Palawan — the latter offering me some of the most beautiful landscapes of my life.
Among all these destinations, Ko Chang in Thailand holds a special place. I return there regularly, always amazed by its gentle way of life, its secret beaches, and its peaceful atmosphere. A dedicated guide to this island is currently in the works. One particularly fascinating story I’ll be covering is the abandoned cruise ship turned resort — a unique blend of mystery and history. Whether you’re chasing secret beaches, panoramic viewpoints, or authentic cultural experiences, this guide will be your ideal companion.
🌴 Want to dive deeper into Thailand’s many wonders? The Tourism Authority of Thailand offers official travel information, from local festivals to national parks. It’s a great starting point to explore the country beyond the usual paths.
A Site Run by an Expat – For Genuinely Up-to-Date Info
Unlike many websites written from a distance or by writers who have never set foot here, Portail Asie is written from the ground. As I now reside in Thailand, I share real, current, and verified information. Here, nothing is theoretical: every tip is tested, every place explored, every article is fueled by real-world experience.
My Life as an Expat and Digital Nomad
In 2005, I made the life-changing decision to leave France and move to a country that, at the time, was still outside the European Union. That bold step marked the beginning of a life full of discoveries and adventures. Ever since, I’ve been working online — which has allowed me to live a nomadic lifestyle while staying professionally connected.
Digital Entrepreneur & Property Manager
As a digital entrepreneur, I’ve built a solid expertise in remote business management. This flexibility has given me the freedom to explore Asia while still running my ventures. I’m also involved in property management, a field that requires a strong understanding of local markets and the ability to navigate diverse cultural and economic environments.
What You’ll Find on Portail Asie
Whether you’re looking to avoid tourist scams, discover hidden gems, better understand the local culture, or prepare for a move to Thailand, Portail Asie offers you practical guides, personal stories, field-tested advice, and reliable info straight from an expat’s daily life.
Do you share values of respect, authenticity, and curiosity? Here, we also talk about responsible tourism, human connections, and what it truly means to live abroad.
Join Me on This Journey
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your very first trip to Asia, Portail Asie is here to guide and inspire you. Let’s discover Asia’s hidden treasures, embrace its rich cultures, and dive into its fascinating stories — together.
Follow Me on Social Media
📸 For a daily glimpse into life in Thailand and my discoveries across Asia, follow Portail Asie on Facebook and Pinterest. Get real-time updates, photos, and a closer connection with the community.
Want to Get in Touch?
Whether you have questions, suggestions, or want to share your own travel experiences, I’d love to hear from you. Feel free to reach out via the contact form. I do my best to reply promptly and stay connected with this growing community of Asia lovers.