American Couple Trades Corporate Life for Island Living in Thailand
Justin and Kelly Harris, a couple from the United States, have embarked on a life-changing journey, moving from Singapore to the tropical paradise of Koh Samui, Thailand. The pair, who previously held demanding corporate positions in Singapore, now run a flexible design studio while enjoying the laid-back island lifestyle and lower cost of living.
The Harrises’ path to Koh Samui began in Los Angeles, where they met in 2010 while working at Walt Disney Imagineering. Their careers in theme park design took them to Shanghai in 2013, igniting a passion for travel and Asian cultures. After returning to LA in 2016, they relocated to Singapore in 2022 for work opportunities.
While Singapore offered safety and efficiency, the couple found themselves working long hours to maintain their lifestyle, with little personal time. A vacation to Koh Samui sparked a desire for change, leading them to prioritize quality of life and creative freedom over corporate advancement.
In July 2023, Justin and Kelly made the bold move to Koh Samui, coincidentally settling in the area where the upcoming third season of “The White Lotus” was filmed. They secured a ‘Smart Visa’ through the Thailand Bureau of Investment, designed for startup entrepreneurs.
The transition wasn’t without challenges. Navigating the local real estate market proved difficult due to the lack of a centralized database, and renovations required adaptability to the island’s slower pace. To better integrate into their new community, the couple began taking Thai lessons.
Their new venture, SnobBirds, an architecture, branding, and concept design studio, allows them to work remotely on projects across the US, Singapore, and Hong Kong. This flexible arrangement enables them to choose projects based on passion and fit, rather than financial necessity.
The Harrises have embraced island life, exploring Thailand through road trips and ferry rides. They appreciate the diverse international community on Koh Samui and enjoy experiencing new cultures and cuisines.
Financially, the move has been beneficial. While imported goods are more expensive, Thai food is affordable and excellent. The couple was able to purchase their Koh Samui house outright, significantly reducing their living expenses compared to Singapore.
Despite the distance, Justin and Kelly maintain connections with family and friends, visiting LA annually and hosting family in Thailand. Their future plans remain open-ended, with no set date for returning to the US.
The Harrises’ story exemplifies a growing trend of professionals seeking alternative lifestyles that prioritize personal fulfillment and work-life balance over traditional career paths.
