Doing Life Differently in Thailand by Mel Pike is a heartfelt, inspiring journey of self-discovery that encourages readers to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new experiences. Mel's decision to spend a few months in Thailand in her early fifties, with no responsibilities to hold her back, becomes a powerful exploration of personal growth, resilience, and the beauty of solo travel.

The book beautifully captures the essence of Thailand, from the sun-drenched streets of Kata Beach to the intoxicating aromas of Thai cuisine. Through Mel’s eyes, we experience not just the vibrant culture of Thailand, but also the deep, transformative effect it has on her. She immerses herself in the local culture, learns the language, and forms meaningful connections with the Thai people, whose kindness and warmth profoundly impact her. These connections become one of the book's most touching elements, as Mel reflects on love, loss, and the passage of time with honesty and vulnerability.

The writing is warm and relatable, making it feel as though Mel is right there beside you, sharing her journey. Her reflections on simplifying life, letting go of the burdens that weigh us down, and embracing the present moment are beautifully woven throughout the book. Each page is infused with a sense of possibility and adventure, reminding readers that it’s never too late to change the course of your life and seek out new opportunities for growth and joy.

What makes this book particularly special is how it balances the external journey with an internal one. While Mel explores Thailand, she also explores herself—her desires, fears, and the lessons learned along the way. It’s a book about stepping into the unknown, facing challenges with courage, and embracing the warmth of new human connections.

Doing Life Differently in Thailand is more than just a travel memoir; it’s a celebration of the transformative power of travel and the soul-nourishing experiences that come from opening yourself up to the world. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or simply looking for a bit of inspiration to shake up your own routine, this book is a reminder that life is full of endless possibilities.

If you’re looking for a book that will make you reflect on your own life, inspire you to take bold steps toward new experiences, and leave you with a sense of hope and wonder, this is the one. An absolute gem for anyone who loves travel, personal growth, or simply a beautifully written story of change and self-discovery.

So sorry but I did not enjoy this book and would have preferred reading some travel blogs during this time. I've been curious about visiting Thailand a few years now but was not enticed to make travel plans now,

Doing Life Differently in Thailand : One woman ditching the daily grind, living solo and making memories. I wanted to love this book but was a bit disappointed. EAT, SLEEP, REPEAT, was the theme. I was hoping to be taken on a tour of the country and take a peek into some of the amazing places. Whereas it was a diary of the food the author ate, and her relationship with the locals. I found it a bit sad that she had all this solo time on her hands and just stayed in the same few places. It was a bit odd as not many people would be able to live in hotels for months at a time. However, I also admire that she did exactly what she wanted to do, and that in itself is doing things differently (whatever it is to you).

This book has the honor of being one of the few books I did not finish. I can usually power through a bad book but I could not imagine reading 300 more pages. The book really needs an editor. It is an adolescent diary written by a 50+ year old woman. Every day is the same I spoke Thai, I ate food, I rested in my air conditioned room. Having her repeat that 200 more times is unnecessary. Just because she speaks Thai she thinks she enjoying life among the Thai people but instead her privilege at being able to 6 months off from work and leave her family comes through on every page. The contempt she shows about tourists was weird since she is also a tourist. I was looking for word to reading this book as I enjoy travel books but this was a big disappointment.

Really interesting read about life and culture in Thailand, a place I've never travelled to. Enjoyable memoir!

Thank you Netgalley and Solo Sisters Publishing (Mel Pike) for the ARC!

I have been really struggling with this book and have decided to DNF it. I found the author to be very judgmental for someone who has lived in other cultures. There have been multiple rants about tourists sunbathing in skimpy outfits and using "weed". The writing feels very juvenile and reads as "I did this, then I did this, and then I did this". I also don't need to be reminding on every other page that the author speaks Thai. Between the writing and the judgement, I had to let this book go. Which is disappointing because I adore travel memoirs and Thailand is a place I would really like to visit.

Great read, nice to hear about different countries and cultures.

Thank you NetGalley for my complimentary copy in return for my honest review.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was an interesting book. I learned a lot from reading it!