Crisis, Privilege, and Lifestyle Migration: Mobility in Times of Uncertainty

This paper examines lifestyle migration to Thailand as part of an emerging culture of migration shaped by socio-political instability and economic uncertainty. Focusing on migrants from a politically and economically volatile context, it highlights the timing of this migration trend and explores how personal and collective crises influence mobility decisions. Situating these dynamics within global migration patterns and parallel cases, the paper employs the concept of social imaginaries to investigate how Thailand is perceived as an ideal destination due to its affordability and relaxed lifestyle. These perceptions, alongside practical factors such as visa flexibility and community support, shape migration choices. Notably, many migrants reject the term ‘migration′, opting for less permanent and more positive framings. By analysing lifestyle migration in times of crisis, this paper expands the scope of lifestyle and privileged migration research, examining the role of privilege in mobility.