A woman shares her story of finding herself in a sticky situation in Thailand after making the bold move from the United States to Southeast Asia. While in pursuit of a digital nomad lifestyle, she became homeless without a financial safety net.
Kiawanna Moore embarked on a one-way journey from her hometown of Baton Rouge, Louisiana to Japan in August 2023. She documented her experience in a TikTok video and admits she had “no plans” and was unfamiliar with Japan at the time.
In a YouTube video, she documented her flight to Tokyo. She said she sold everything she owned and moved overseas.
It all started with a spur-of-the-moment decision, according to Moore. After selling her car and parting with belongings in her condo, she made the jump. But her Tokyo dream was short-lived. After just one day in the bustling city, reality hit hard — the expenses were overwhelming and she couldn’t sustain a life there. So, without hesitation, she booked another one-way flight, this time for Thailand.
Opening up on TikTok, she shared the raw truth of her journey, admitting she landed in Thailand “without a plan and absolutely no clue about the country.”
She Became Homeless
Moore explains her difficulties finding work, and after five months in Thailand, she was still without income. Initially, Moore settled into a cozy spot she affectionately dubbed the “treehouse” upon her arrival in Pai, Thailand. In one of her videos, she expressed her delight in residing there amidst the local community. However, she later disclosed that she decided to move out and terminate her lease after six months.
Her move came after learning about Thailand’s “burning season.” This season happens when natural fires break out due to dry, arid land and leaves. From Pai, she moved to Pattaya, Thailand. Three days later she ended up homeless.
“After staying in Thailand for five months, I still was not able to obtain income. I still wasn’t able to figure out how to make an income. I ran out of money and that is how I ended up homeless,” she says in a TikTok video.
Moore’s videos have sparked diverse reactions from viewers. Some extended words of support and shared practical suggestions, while others criticized her approach to financial planning and decision-making.
“Reach out to your family back home and apologize. Ask them to assist with purchasing return tickets. Living outside the US may seem cost-effective, but without a solid plan…,” one commenter advised.
“Taking such a financial risk without a solid plan was quite daring. As a fellow digital nomad, I comprehend the allure of wanderlust, but it’s crucial to exercise prudence. Wishing you the best of luck!” another chimed in.
Updates on Her Life in Thailand
Following the disclosure of her challenges in a TikTok livestream, a follower reached out and connected her with a compassionate Thai woman. This individual provided financial assistance, treated her to a rejuvenating spa day, and arranged for accommodation in a hotel. Despite the hardships, Moore expressed her firm decision not to return to the United States just yet.
“People often ask me, ‘Why not go back to America?'” she stated. “But I tell them, ‘… I left everything behind in America to embark on a new life abroad. Why would I start over back home when I’m already starting fresh here?'”
Despite initially having only $7 upon her arrival in Pattaya, Moore managed to earn around $650 within a week and has since been employed as a hairstylist.
Two days ago, she dropped a YouTube video recounting the entire story of her journey. Above all, she ponders questions like why she didn’t bring enough money, why she put herself through this, and whether her situation was actually suffering.