Swedish Top with a Thai Passport

Mr. Richardson is the General Manager of the 137 Pillars Hotel in Bangkok. Originally from Sweden, he has been living in Thailand since 1994.

A holder of a Thai passport, he is a Thai citizen, which is a rarity among local foreigners (as passports are not usually granted to anyone).

137 Pillars is one of the most expensive hotels in Bangkok, where we, by the way, spent 2 nights.

- Bjorn, how did you end up in Thailand?

It was in the distant year of 1994. Thailand was very different, not like it is now. I started working as an intern at a chain hotel.

- And what happened next?

I climbed the career ladder. I caught the attention of the Thai government, and they decided to grant me a Thai passport, quite an impossibility for any foreigner these days. So, I became a local (laughs).

- Has much changed since then?

First and foremost, my feelings. You know, Thailand is a closed country. My spouse is Thai, but I never felt like a full member of society.

Things changed with obtaining citizenship. I must say, the passport didn't solve all my problems, but it closed many of them. At the very least, I can own land.

(Foreigners in Thailand are prohibited from owning land). And that's an important feeling.

- Is Thailand changing?

You know, it's changing, but slowly. There's still a lot of conservatism. And this is something even Thais acknowledge.

- What sets your hotel apart?

It's large and yet boutique. Located right in the heart of the business district. We offer high-quality service. All of this comes at high prices, but they are market rates.

- Do you miss Sweden?

You know, I don't. Firstly, my age (smiles). I got tired of the cold climate and cold countries.

Secondly, everything from Norway is available in Bangkok. Even Norwegian salmon of excellent quality. Farming is actively developing. Many products are imported from other countries.

Thirdly, my family is in Thailand.

- What languages do you speak?

I speak my native Norwegian and English. You know, it's enough for me. I've found my place and contribute based on my knowledge.

- What irritates you in Bangkok?

Traffic jams, the enduring conservatism. Terrible traffic conditions, very unsafe.

I'm not the youngest person, and I think that's important.

- Where do you like to go (besides the city)?

The northern regions of the country. Where it's cool and pleasant after Bangkok. It's like taking a dip in a cold lake (somewhere in Norway).

- Is it difficult to work with Thais?

Thais are tactful and polite. It all depends on how tasks are set. The market is unique and outstanding in some ways.

The conservatism I mentioned earlier. The inability to pick up speed quickly.

- How can one know if Thailand is their place?

Visit Bangkok, visit a Thai village. Perhaps you will like Thailand. Perhaps not. If not, there are many other wonderful places in the world.