Five reasons expats are leaving Thailand in 2024. Why do westerners who retire in Thailand leave?
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- čas přidán 8. 07. 2024
- 🔴For many of us, to retire in Thailand is a dream. So why do some expats leave Thailand and return home in 2024? I see this happen with westerners living in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya and throughout Thailand. It is not just one region. This is also true of foreigners who are not yet retired, but planned to live in Thailand long-term. I've boiled it down to five reasons why expats fail to find happiness living in Thailand. Identifying and analyzing these reasons will help you not fall victim to the same things. Happily, they are all avoidable, if you know what to prepare for and if you have the right outlook about retiring in Thailand.
I actually don't think the number of expats leaving Thailand is high. In fact, I think expats in Bangkok and expats in Chiang Mai and Pattaya and Phuket and elsewhere are quite content with their lives here in Thailand. Thanks to the friendly Thai people, great food, super inexpensive prices, excellent affordable healthcare and a low crime rate make Thailand a great place to live and retire, So is it Thailand that fails the expat? Or the expat who fails adapting to Thailand?
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🔴 CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction
01:27 Checking out Thailand first
04:53 Money
08:14 Women / Love / Romance
11:48 Health
15:16 Visas
16:28 Happiness / Lonlieness
21:57 Wrap up
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To hear about the flip side of this video... Why I Leftthe USA to Retire in Thailand: czcams.com/video/XDkfzkQFQL0/video.html
And if you want to see our video on the cost of living in Thailand (specifically Chiang Mai): czcams.com/video/_I56pgxJ-b4/video.html
Health insurance in Thailand: czcams.com/video/epIhlkDtKzQ/video.html
Are you an American and want Medicare for emergencies? Here's a trick: czcams.com/video/aNu4-RWQ91I/video.html
What about the taxes that is proposed for foreigners living there for more than 180 days?
@@pamelaalston4178It's f**ked!
Lots of commentary on men meeting women. Zero commentary on women meeting men. 👎
@retiredgloballife can you please share where we can reach Hailey’s office for advise on visas? Would want to ask her guidance on options
I just my stomach scanned... $700.00 for a fckn stomach CT. WTF. Thailand is a rip off. NOT worth it. Im 6 months in thinking I was going to settle down here... Then again maybe they are charging differnet prices for foreigners... They charge foreigners diff price for water parks or national parks maybe they do the same for hospital visits... :/ This plus all of idiotic paper work foreigners have to put up with too... Im definately considering leaving..
I retired to Thailand 14 years ago.
I must admit that this is one of the best videos I have watched
I highly recommend that new comers and intended new comers watch it.
Thank you you very much.
Wow, thank you! Come again, Les. Take care.
Yes, it is!
Are you his friend or just an ass kisser? 5555
Good videos! I also retired in CM (7 years now). I don't think a single day has past when I do not consider myself very lucky for being here. Even though I am by myself 100% of the time (no friends by choice and no live-in girlfriend by choice) I am out and about every single day (almost always on my electric bicycle) and loving every single second of this life of solitude. My career in the oil business was 45 years of wall-to-wall negotiations and meetings and such so that when it was time to retire the thought of complete silence and solitude was VERY important. I just wanted to come here to say your levelheaded and informative videos about Chiang Mai are a cut WELL ABOVE other local videos. Thank you.
Hey that's a very nice compliment! Thanks. I try to give the subject a lot of thought and not just blab til it is time to end the video. But I do get tired of making all those title cards! If solitude is what makes you happy, good for you. We all dig different things to go to bed with a smile on our face. Best wishes.
What about the taxes that is proposed for foreigners living there for more than 180 days?
I am planning at least 6 months of solitude when I retire in Jan 25. I plan on moving to the Philippines for those first months and then after I’m fully decompressed I’ll start looking for a place to live for a longer stay. Thailand, Vietnam, Bali or somewhere in the Philippines are my targets.
@@pamelaalston4178 nobody has any facts yet
Sounds like you are living my future life.
I travel to Thailand twice a year. But to stay there all the time when back home I have home and 30 acres property paid for, it would be foolish for me. And I like to work on cars and now I cut firewood for extra money. I can't do those things in Thailand and the heat just overwhelms you. I have stayed 60 days and to be honest the beach life for me gets old after a while. And shopping gets tiring too after a while. My Thai wife is looking forward to living in the US with me, and then we can travel to Thailand once a year and that way we can have the best of two worlds. But living in Thailand full time is not an easy thing to do as some people think it is,,,,,,,,,,,,
Thanks! Sounds like you have the best of both worlds. Good for you.
Flying will soon be restricted
I have a Thailand wife of 20 years , after 18 years in Australia her mother became I’ll , so my wife wanted to return to her village and all the family ,
We built a house , but 6 months a year is enough for me in Thailand ,
So my wife is almost full time in Thailand , I’m 6 months Thai 6 months Australia ,
It seems to work out for us
@@PeterC245I say what ever works go for it. We been to Thailand a few times but yea round ? No
Same. I just work to do Winter over there. Live a similar lifestyle to you back in the West, but I’m smart enough to be a bachelor. Love my remote, peaceful property where I have plenty to do to keep me occupied, plus amazing motorbike riding at the end of my driveway. 2-3 months in the Kingdom per year is plenty enough to not get jaded by it … 🎉
Been living in Thailand for 10 years now - starting visiting 40 years ago. Love it....there are things that drive me crazy of course - the horrendous driving habits, very high income tax (I'm not retired and I make a high wage here and it is taxed much higher than I ever was in the states...), but I think one thing that is steering expats away is the pollution which seems to be getting much worse every year.... But I plan on retiring here of course. My partner and family are all Thai. I think one thing that is a game deal changer for those who may be struggling is to simply learn the language. I am fairly fluent so I can converse with anyone here in three dialects. It is such a different world when you can speak like a local. Everything changes for the better. Great and informative clip! Thanks
Wow, I'm jealous. I am a bad Thai student. Sadly the air problem is severe. Luckily for me in CM it is just Feb/March/April so vacations and trips home can be scheduled for then. But I feel bad for those who can't leave. There is always someone downstream of you, so we should all be respectful. It boggles the mind that other people do this to each other with the crop burning.
What about mountains of garbage everywhere and extreme poverty and total disorder? When we come to Thailand just stay on the beach front hotel. Because any place one step away from the beach it is like a garbage field
@@bambinaforever1402 I have not seen this, although it is true that Thailand does not have the same degree of order in the west. But that is true of most of SE Asia. Can't really compare the two worlds. Just different.
@@bambinaforever1402Not our experience in Chiang Mai (hotel northnortheast of the historical centre, between CM Rajabhat Uni and Jing Jai market along the 2041) first half of April (left just before Song Kran). Air polution however was bad.
I've been coming to Chiang Mai for 20 years during the winter months. My reason for not returning is poor air quality. The average for small particle size air pollution ( pm 2.5) AVERAGES 10× the World Health Service(WHO) standards. It's FAR worse during December through April. Viewing the NASA fire maps shows that it's a regional problem unlikely to be solved in my lifetime. My health is very much more important to me than the benefits of Thailand.
Me too. Worsening air quality will make me change where I stay in Thailand & when I'll stay there.
But still, Thailand (mainly because of it's friendly culture & relatively low price) my #1 place to be for a big part of every year.
Good points and I agree with you Feb-April. I have never noticed bad air in December though. At least not in CM.
Agree 100% , Super ugly air quality and very overrated ..... Prefer less polluted and more western .. Thailand is not good for many people ...
We to Pattaya. But where is the clean air at mostly with cheep motels
@@RetiredGlobalLifeyou've "never noticed" because they don't burn in December! Kind of makes sense
You are completle right: Another culture. CCC: Do not compare, do not criticise, always stay calm
Wise words! I should have included them!
@@RetiredGlobalLife ... mine is same age and she does not only looks like 20 but also behaves like it - I enjoy this so much. Best wifes on planet if raised well: her mum cooks for the monks 5 o'clock in the morning
@@RetiredGlobalLifeyeah seems to be like constructive advice from streamlined obidients hope your tax returns on your savings will be income taxed
...........poor planning i guess
yes
Randy, this is so level-headed, helpful, and encouraging.
Ah, I love compliments! Thank you!
Any addiction sec or alcohol or rugs will ruin you here because of easy access
Thank you for this video! This is very helpful!
Thanks, Tony. Good to hear from you.
The video is very detailed, real and effective. Thank you very much. Continue to produce quality material and a good and peaceful life for everyone
Sharon, big thanks for the nice words.
I really appreciate everything that you guys do and I'm happy to be a member of your CZcams channel. I learned so much from both of you over this past year. Keep up the excellent, honest work. 😉👍
What a nice comment! Thanks from Joy and me.
Always great information. Thank you.
So nice of you. Thanks, Glory.
I have watched many videos about retiring overseas and most are just listening to rambling with little direction, ADHD to the max. Love how you spent time getting your topic nailed down and presented this topic precisely and to the point. Super informative. Easy to listen to, and you stayed on topic from start to finish. Well done. Thanks.
Very nice of you, although I think I drone on too long sometimes...
Straightforward, direct and honest.
I'm in!
Thanks so much, Giaovanni!
Hi, yes visa are a huge issue here! Living in China for almost 20 years , it was way EASIER to get visas than here in Thailand. I am a fully certified teacher from Canada, and getting the proper visa in Thailand is/was a nightmare. Also checking in with the police station every 90 days is frustrating. China did not even require that. Also Thailand is very expensive compared to the salaries offered. I live a very simple life as a single mom and a teacher. I'm considering going back or leaving soon. The people are lovely, but that doesn't pay the bills. Thank you for your post.
Thanks for an excellent post. Yes, Thai people can live on low Thai salaries because many live together, adult kids with parents, aunts and uncles sharing places etc. Hard if you are single on a Thai salary. And I agree, the visas can be a pain with the exception of the LTR and to a lesser extent, retirement visas, which are not hard as long as you tick all the boxes on the requirements of you.
Do you speak Chinese?
I agree 99%.
Ready nice video and eminently sensible advice as always. Appreciate it.
Thanks for watching!
Good, clear, to the point video. Well done!👏 Subscribed.
Thanks, Francis! Hope to see you commenting here again.
Easy solution would be if Thailand adopted 3 month visas like most countries. Majority of people would be happy to spend 3-6 months in Thailand and then go to their home country or other countries. This would solve most of the issues.
100% agree. I think it is coming but the gov is not too fast moving.
Thailand has a 3 month visa. Various versions.
100%
If they don’t want to give me a 3 month visa then I won’t waste my time to go there. There are more accommodating and cheaper places in SE Asia.
@@faiolapat Agree 100%. Many other SEA countries need my money. The disparity between Thai visa rules and Cambodian visa rules is so tremendous. I'm also offended they are giving Russians 90 day visas but not Americans or Europeans.
Very accurate, well made and informative video. I lived a couple of years in Chiang Mai, '09-'11, met my wife in Thailand and now we live in the United States. I hope to return once I'm retired yet again in the next year or so. Looking forward to more of your content while we investigate doing so. Thanks!
Tim, I love videos like this! Thanks so much for taking the time. How did your wife initially adapt to the US, and how about after a few years. We are going to do a video on Joy's first visit to CA next month.
Absolutely. Accurate & informative
Another detailed, well researched video. It brings up many of the factors that people have to consider before moving there.
Thanks, Barry. Coming from a global icon like you, that means something! What I'm not sure... but something.
Planning to retire next year when I am 68. Thanks, absorbing all the information I can.
I was a YT addict on Thailand leading up to my move. I get it! Thanks.
What about the taxes that is proposed for foreigners living there for more than 180 days?
Never seen a video with so many positive comments. And I agree with them all. You have a new subscriber! Keep up the great content … 🎉
Thanks and welcome! I hope to see you here again, Jonny.
What a pleasant articulate man. Enjoyed the video and subscribed. Thnaks
Thanks for the nice compliment. (:
Really enjoyed the video thanks a lot
Lots of good and wise advise in this video, Randy. 🙏.
Thanks so much!
I lived and worked in Asia for 5 years, you need to sum it up and acount for your stay. Asia is the best place to be, and Im a western woman
Always nice to see you as a regular here, Glenda. (:
Do you have “forever “ money? From social security, defined benefit pension plans? Or savings/401-k? Perhaps a mix?
If you’re depending on the former, you’re probably going to be ok, as long as you’re able to stick to your budget. Those with forever money need to realize the limits of their income, including aside money medical/repatriation insurance. Plus, if you’re with a native partner, what steps can/should you take, to ensure your partner doesn’t lose everything on your death!
Those depending on savings/401-k’s and such have a bigger hill to climb, IMHO! Listen to the advice of this channel! Try before you buy, especially if you’re income isn’t lifetime money!
once again very well done - informative and direct - addressing the issues and giving solutions or suggestions.. i find these videos fascinating - visually as i have not been there and informative for someone who might want to go there on a long term basis... very insightful and helpful.. nicely done.
Thank you. Should I become an actor?
@@RetiredGlobalLife you always were - spoken from your agent and long time friend... :) :)
One of the best info video all time, thanks
Wow, what a nice thing to say!
Thank you.. your advice is excellent.
Very kind of you! Can I get you to talk to my adult children . . .
Important and valuable topic. Timely for me, I'm 61 and retiring in Thailand soon!! I've been traveling there for 14 years, have my act together financially, have family and friends waiting for me, and I still think I need to follow your advice. Thanks Randy. Joy looks happy looking over your shoulder!
Way to go, Peter! So glad you got things all lined up! Wishing you great success here.
What about the taxes that is proposed for foreigners living there for more than 180 days?
Never been to Thailand. Listened to a few CZcamsrs . This gentleman really has made the most sense and best advice
Hey, I got "gentleman" and "best advice" in one day! I will feel good all day. Thanks Ahmad!
Thank you so much for sharing important considerations to be happy in Thailand
Thanks Ian. Appreciated!
Really good advice. Thank-you.
Thanks, Zander. Appreciated.
Thank You so much for a very nice movie. As a non-native English speaker, I greatly appreciate that You speak perfect English, calmly and pleasantly and that there is a text strip in the lower part of the film. (most people who post videos here are English speakers who speak as if they met the neighbor at home down the street.) As a native of Sweden with our cold winter climate, Thailand has become my winter paradise. Not only for the climate, but also because of the incredibly friendly population, their calmness and hospitality and of course the good food. I also love their culture, their religion and the way they treat the animals. After a hard life as a self-employed person in Sweden, my stays in Thailand will now be longer, will change from three week vacations to at least 3 to 4 months during the Swedish winter. And as we say in Sweden, you must take the customs where you come, calm, friendly and with a smile on your face. Thanks for a nice movie. Best regards Leif, Sweden 😂
Thank you sincerely for such a nice message.
Randy Awesome video, I watch many CZcams videos on the ups and downs of Living in Thailand as a retiree! I like yourself am from southern California! I have no desire to live here anymore. I visited Thailand twice last year and I have never been more relaxed in my life. As a retired police detective I was so impressed with how safe I felt even on the subway (which I would not dare ride the METRO!) Well thanks much! I hope to buy you that coffee in person in the next few months as I'm going to take the chance at a new life.🙏🏽
Hi, I'm soon to be a retired teacher from the U.S. I am also a solo female traveler. You'll love spending more time in Thailand. It's a wonderful, safe country for many retired Americans, especially those of us who've had very stressful jobs. Enjoy your time there! It's a very safe country for male & female expats. Congratulations on your decision to be in Thailand.
Thanks so much. Yes, I feel super safe (well except on the roads) in Thailand, especially in Chiang Mai. But even in BKK I never felt uncomfortable, even at night. Hope to see you sometime.
I felt that same thing in Manila.... also from Socal and I'm a " Situational Awareness" kind of guy....mind you they had armed guards outside the stores .... But I felt safe and peaceful not like here.
I took that chance on a new life. It's detective-grade smart to review pros & cons before living here too, as Randy advises.
Immigration can be frustrating at one place, abusive the next! Medical is super convenient here and high quality is available.
It's safe, yes, but it's the Thai people... they aren't looking for an excuse to lash out. They look for an opportunity to smile, laugh and joke.
I'm not clear whether you like California or Thai. Do you refer Metro in Thailand and safe. I'm from London
Thank you for sharing. Very good information.
Very nice of you, thanks.
I knew every single point but still watched anyway. Good video.
Hey, nice to hear that. Thanks and best wishes.
Excellent video, I'm retired, live in England and booked to spend three months in Thailand next winter to escape the miserable weather to see for myself if it's for me, I've had holidays there before, but that's different. Great insight to what it's actually like longer term.
I wish you great success!
But you have snow. Snow is great.
The drawback for Brit's who are thinking about retiring to Thailand is that you will not receive your annual state pension increase..
@@Layput not had snow where I live for 15 plus years
Excellent advice - well presented! Thank you for preparing this.
Glad you enjoyed it!
@@RetiredGlobalLifeI J890 6
Wonderfully informative video. Thank you.
Our pleasure! Hope to see you here again.
Great video, thank you 🙏
My pleasure!
I have been retired in Thailand for 25 years. Retired Global Life's advice is very solid, useful information. I would add one thing to it. Get out and do the things you love in Thailand and there you have a very good chance to meet your people. I always wanted to make inflatable kayaking white water videos. Once I was set up here I did just that. I hired some local people and involved a few foreigners who just showed up. This was a great 3 year long adventure and led to meeting the woman and paddling the rivers. So much to see and do and so little time.
Great post!! Thanks.
Great, where do you go, I'm guessing up north near CM ? What's the name of your company, so I can do a trip when I get there in a couple months? 🤙😎
Good video as always. I agree with your list, and note that a person with those issues in Thailand likely had the same problems in their home country. Moving overseas for a 'fresh start' is an attempt to run away from problems, and rarely works. Once a person gets those behind them and I believe they would find Thailand to be a great place.
Excellent point and you remind me that is one I wanted to make! 555 Too late now.
Very nice job of summing up what to do and not to do. Thanks
Kind of you. Thanks!
Thank You for this video, fully understandable, I’m working on this now and I needed all this information on all your topics 🙏🏽❤️
Thanks. Glad it was helpful.
I'll be there in 2025 April. A tip do not go to Thailand overweight. You will suffer badly with the heat and humidity!!!
I'm done mostly carnivore for 4 months down over 80 lb it worked for me good luck guys
Hey Scott, big congratulations on the weight loss. My problem is putting weight on as I'm too skinny... we are all so different, but I know from others how difficult it can be to lose weight. And 80 pounds, wow.
I was in Thailand, not that long ago. I lost 8 pounds in two weeks while eating all I want. I think you could go to Thailand, overweight, the problem will take care of itself.
@@RetiredGlobalLifeeat raw honey mate you will soon pile the pounds on
With the heat and sensible eating the weight will fall of you, I'm down 30 lbs in a year, 20 lbs to go.
Wonderful set of reflections and suggestions! I lived in Taiwan for 12 years and as an American felt more or less completely integrated after 2-3 years. All of the suggestions you make are the same suggestions I would have made to people taking up life in foreign countries.
Thanks, Gil! Much appreciated.
Thank you for the information
My pleaseure Mike. Take care and come again.
Thank You for sharing this information
My pleasure. Take care.
Certainly enjoyed your video. I came to Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai in 2007 to teach English. I thoroughly enjoyed those years living Thai style and interacting with Thai children and other teachers. Unfortunately, the Thai govt prefers young teachers and I soon aged out. I lived in Rayong but not happily so I relocated to Jomtien, where I found my perfect balance. When Covid hit, I became quite an introvert and discovered I like that life style. Not for everyone but it works for me. I rarely leave my condo which has a lovely Gulf view, my groceries are delivered and I do the vast of my "shopping" through Lazada. I am happy and feel quite blessed. Best wishes to you and Joy!!!
Thanks so much, Janie. I joke sometimes all I need is a plant-filled big balcony or patio, a nice view, an umbrella or awning, a comfortable chair, a good book, an iced tea and something good to snack on. So you are on to something. Continued happiness.
Hello. I love Thailand and am considering retiring there. How di you meet quality men to date?
@@Ania-bw6se Chances are slim, slight, and none.
I was born an introvert people seem to have trouble understanding that . I like interaction but prefer my own company .
I appreciate the video and it’s been on my mind for years. I’ve been married to my Thai wife for about 22 years now and we think we will mostly split our time between the two. I want her to have time with family and we also love our home here in FL. We are in the process of getting our daughter her Thai citizenship as she was born here in the U.S. and this is so she has options and will be able to purchase property (or I will in her name) so we ALL have options. That’s what important for me is the freedom to live in either place. I love Thailand but I also love my home.
You sound like me! We are lucky.
Liked. Much love good man. And everyone reading this as well ❤
Thanks for the kind words! I hope you visit again.
Great video, thank you.
Thanks! I hope to hear from you again.
You hit on the nail for living in a different community than what you are accustomed to. By the way, the sunshine here is twice as strong as in the So. CA so don't forget to wear "sunglasses" to block out the light and UV preventing cataracts. Take Care!
Big thanks!
Great video...heartfelt, genuine, motivating, and informative to the viewer. I would add, narrow down a city or province, and stay at least 30 days there to get a really good feel...the rest just follow the video guidelines as a solid roadmap to Thai Assimilation
Great suggestion! Yes, it would be nice to spend more time in each city before narrowing it down. I was trying to be practical for the amount of money people are willing to spend before staying longer in one city to see it it is right for them.
excellent video ...thank you. YES a fuller life in Chiang Mai. ...for sure
It really is! Glad you agree. Best wishes.
useful info, thanks for sharing
Thanks so much. Come again.
Hi, Randy. Thank you for the wonderful video. Thailand is also safe for female travelers of all ages. I always feel safe with Thai people. Your video discusses some very important points of consideration. I do see and hear about many foreign guys who return to their countries unfortunately because of money. Money gets people into trouble for a variety of reasons. Like you said, a budget and having a cushion are necessary. I have a specific savings account reserved for a medical emergency to be ready when I will live more full-time abroad. That tiny details can give retirees abroad peace of mind.
Thanks. Yes $ is an issue everywhere and all over the world, emergencies come up and people are not prepared. The worst is seen in the US. Witness homeless people everywhere in all our large cities now. Sad.
Good stuff.. knew most of this. Clean sober 34 years. I came here 30 years ago. Read write and can communicate.
Taught scuba 10 years on Phuket my off season ( Alaska commercial fisherman) Started training muay thai 2006
Still train today.. Started a charity in Buriram 12 years ago. I drive up once..twice per month. Best experience..
Have real estate here. Love Thailand
Can I be you? 555, sounds like you have a fun and adventurous life. Good for you my friend.
@@RetiredGlobalLife driving up to buriram after tomorrow. Kids wanna go to the water park. Plus, one has a birthday.
Amphur Prakhon Chai. Siriyapark. Fun stuff.. kickboxing tomorrow 😉
@scotniver7180
555...from the internet:
"In Thai internet slang, "555" is used to represent laughter. This is because the number 5 in Thai is pronounced as "ha." So when Thai speakers type "555" online, they are essentially typing "hahaha" as we might use "LOL" or "haha" in English. It's a way to indicate that something is funny or amusing."
I didn't know this before seeing it here.
Thanks for sharing this with us!
Best wishes from
Udo in Puh Kradueng
Very nice of you! Thanks and best wishes.
Great video man 😊👍🙏
Thanks Steven. Much appreciated!
22 years in Thailand but never more than 6 months per year. Works great for me!
Wow, great. I'm not too different. I still come back to CA due to so many family and home ties. A great balance.
My Plan
@@krismurphy7711 don’t wait too long my friend, life’s short
I retired here 3 years ago, age 33.
I came here cold turkey, just sold everything and came. I watched 100+ hours of Thailand vlogs though so I knew exactly what I was going to get. Wasn't surprised by much.
After 3 years now though. Reasons I would leave: pollution, western influence, boring? Boring being the primary driver. Everything is new and interesting at the beginning but it becomes "normal" after awhile. My home country of Canada was very boring and predictable, and now that is becoming the case here. Thailand will always be my SE Asia home base though (elite visa/easy travel/very safe and friendly people).
Haha, I think you are easily bored... And congrats on retiring at 33!
Perhaps retiring at 33 contributed to your boredom as there is a lot of free time to fill. I’m a retired Canadian as well (retired at 54) and find myself craving a different lifestyle. Maybe Thailand, but I think it’s really a fantasy coming from boredom rather than a real desire to be there. I’m at a crossroads.
@@thegoldendog7991 I consume information faster than most. I am not “bored” in the way most people would think (IE: nothing to do). I just find it becoming stale/normal and the things I see/do aren’t as interesting as they used to be so I call it bored
If your 54 and retired, sell your stuff and move to SE Asia
Nothing left in western countries for the average person
Very well said. .
First time viewer and wanted to express my appreciation for such valid content Randy. Wife and I are planning to part-time reside in SE Asia with the Thailand being our main stay country.
We’ve enjoyed the recent travels throughout SE Asia and can’t agree with you more about getting boots on the ground to various countries and cities to explore and soak in the culture and vibe of a community.
Your health insurance segment is what I was most interested hearing your thoughts and experiences about and would recommend anyone reading this comment to take note.
Wife and I will continue to watch your channel and share your love of Thailand to our friends and family. You and Joy have picked up another subscriber in Texas!
Much appreciate, Gabriel. Thanks! Splitting the year between both countries can be great if you can manage the expense of two residences. And you can pick the best weather and avoid the bad from each country.
Cool, calm and 100% correct. Exactly the advice that any person heading to Thailand needs >>>
Very nice of you, Peter. Sincere thanks.
TRY VIETNAM, OR PHILIPPINES, BALI LAOS IS GOOD BURMA DANGEROUS , I TRIED THAILAND CHANG MI ACTUALLY , DIDN'T STAY ,NOT FOR ME NOW IM IN VIETNAM FOR THE LAST 7 YEARS , JUST DO IT
I have lived in several countries. I loved the experience. But one thing really helped. And that was, learning to be very proficient in the local language and customs. I also learned the History, Geography and Cultural (Painting, Sculpture, Literature, Music and Architecture) aspects of the host country.
In other words, do your research and homework!
Yes, learning at least some Thai is so beneficial and makes life there easier and more fun.
interesting video Randy. Thank you.
Thanks, Wayne. I appreciate the comment.
All good points. Not sure this video prepares you for any of these but all important things to think about. I spent my 40s there. Lots of great things about Thailand but after 10 years of teaching English at a university, I’d had enough. No plans to go back but the food is awesome.
Thanks for sharing! Good to hear from you.
Sadly, can't agree with the food issue but some of it is very good.
Some of the unexpected expenses associated with first arrival are the cost of a hotel while you are looking for a long term rental. Then when you do find a place to stay you will be asked for 2-3 months rent in advance.
Actually it is first month and one extra is the norm, but that is true about everywhere, except in Thailand there is not the big investigation into your past to see if you are rent worthy.
Great video that helping expats adjust to the new country,Thank you very much.
Hey, thanks so much!
Excellent tips, well thoughts and advice. Thank you very much Randy. Miss joy in this vid.😁
Thanks! I'll tell Joy she was missed!
I’m about to move to the Philippines your advice was easy to transfer from Thailand to the Philippines so thanks you
Glad I could help!
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and experiences
You are so welcome! Thanks for watching, Anthony.
Highly appreciated your vid. Compliments will follow you and subscribed. Regards from CH🇨🇭
Christine, thank you!
Hi Randy.
Great video again ... Written from the perspective of a professional with choices. I can certainly relate to it but let's be realistic about retired men who end up in Thailand .
Many,many don't have a wide variety of choices , especially back home where they may live on a pension dealing with inflation.
Coming to Thailand as retirees is one choice to stretch their budget and improve living conditions .
Unfortunately they end up on a shoe string budget accommodation wise but still better than at home. Their happiness level is a bit academic, it's more about management of their lives on meagre resources. This is one segment of the retirees in Thailand and quite sizable.
Whether they end up single or coupled depends on their personality types.
Some people can handle "loneliness" , others can't.
If they're rural types there are many nice Thai rural ladies who could be good partners .
No country is like your home country unless you switch like from the US to Canada or Australia. Coming to SEAsia is a cultural switch and you have to accept that or you might be like fish out of water .
Your general advice at the beginning of the video is spot on.
Don't make a hasty decision on the basis of a holiday . And may I say, don't burn all your bridges . With the best plannings things could still go pear shape and you may have to cut your losses. Like a divorce.
Always wise comments, Tom. You know what is funny, I rarely meet the shoe string budget type expat. I don't mean they are rolling in dough, but they seem to be quite comfortable, socially active with a disposable income to do things without financial analysis, like going out to eat all the time (thanks to the fact it is so cheap to eat local Thai foods). But I guess this group you talk about could exist and they are just not visible to me, since they are not the ones socially active and like the person described above. So maybe this group is not very visible for me to see. Where do you interact with those in this group to even know they exist. I don't mean the rare one, but a sizable number? As always, thanks for your input.
@@RetiredGlobalLife I don't interact with them . I knew a couple of expats in CM who were on a pension and lived in a studio room with facilities for about 9000 baht a month,used local transport, ate local food ,a few beers and an occasional massage ,wink, wink .. They're not typical in Chiang Mai .
But in Pattaya/ Jomtien area they're sizable and I saw many ,a sad sight .
I had seen some shoplifting, begging and collapsed on the beach .
To these people Thailand is a refuge to escape to, a Last Chance Saloon .
I'm not a sociologist but I observe .
Some people ,like you,a lawyer , and like me ,a former professional entrepreneur, have choices because of our own efforts. Other people may not,fallen on hard times,bad decisions, broken hearts,you name it .
You can change locations but you bring baggage with you .
Because of who you are you give great advice to an audience who have some resources which allow better choices than poorer people.
The ones with choices can retire here and at the same time remain mobile. The others are stuck here providing they can manage the minimum requirements for a visa .
This is the final destination.
It's not a bad way to finish,at least you're not freezing.
Last week I had to go to Bkk Immigration to get my 20 year Elite extension.
If you ever had to go there you would see the full gamut of various expats and observe some ..many, of the types I'm talking about. In Pattaya Immigration it's much worse .
I sometimes wonder why the government here allow such a low threshold.
I mean many of these expats don't contribute much but eventually become a burden .
I did an exploratory visit for 2.5 months, but the heat and air quality made me ill. I'm very active and I couldn't adapt. Beautiful country and culture, though. I'll be back for a shorter visit someday, maybe November when they aren't burning
Sorry to hear that. The rainy season and through December are ideal for me.
You made a good call. Thailand is the wrong choice for outdoors people. If you could be happy living on a submarine or a space station, this is the place for you.
@@TheJerryconYes, I'm the outdoorsy type. I'm in Nepal now, and will do the Colorado trail this year. 😅
Great Info
Thanks!
GOOD INFO.THANK YOU
My pleasure, Terry. Hope you visit again.
7:30 A retirement visa requires that you have at least $1,850/month income. I use that as a "rule of thumb". If you have less than that you're going to struggle.
If you look at my cost of living vid you can see you can honestly live a simple live on less. Depends on what you consider essential in lifestyle etc.
A refreshing and informative video. Quite frankly after first coming to Thailand 21 years ago now retired here in Bangkok since 2018 I don’t know why I watch these videos. They certainly weren’t around when I had to make a decision but I knew after two or three trips to Thailand. This was the place for me. your advice to those thinking about Thailand, as a place to retire is spot on. 🙏
That's a very nice thing to say as an experienced expat. Thanks. And glad you have made a nice life for yourself in Bangkok. Best wishes and come again.
That was a very good video about Thailand. I agree with all the things you say.
Really appreciate it!
Finding friends was the hardest for me. It's okay in Bangkok, but in Pattaya or another town if you're under 50 and don't speak Russian, you're not going to have many foreign friends. Finding thais with good enough English for real friendship is tough. The Philippines is much easier because there's so many younger filipinos who have great English and filipinos are much more socially extroverted. Personally, I'd move to cambodia over thailand as the value for much is much better these days, but if you're young enough that you want nightlife, cambodia doesn't really have it except in the backpacker places, so if you're a forty something you fall through the gaps of being too young to hang up the dancing shoes and too old to play beer pong with the crusty youngsters with their braids and cheap tattooes. Thailand and cambodia are nicer places to live than the philippines though, which is crowded, has bad internet and fairly bad food and is a bit more authoritarian.
You are right about easier to find English speakers in the Philippines than Thailand. Co-working spaces is a good place to meet people on the under 50 side but you are perhaps right. More social stuff for older people that is organized. But attitude is everything. I went from an introvert often alone to being outgoing. One day I'll have to tell the story how that came about for me.
Frankly, this could be considered reasons NOT to go in the first place. That aside, Thailand's continual tweaking of visas, the potential; for taxation, the crappy air quality in Bangkok and Chiang Mai are sufficient reasons to consider say, Cambodia, or better still Albania where there is no visa required for US citizens for one year, no tax on foreign income and only 15% tax on earnings. To my mind Thailand is driving people away.
You are correct. The government is making decisions without too much clarity for expats like the new tax law. I think when it settles it will not affect 99% of expats at all, but there has been no effort to clarify. And they shot themselves in the foot with last year's Elite visa changes. But I'd still take day to day life in Thailand compared to most of the surrounding countries, even if they are easier to get a visa. And in some of them, the burning is an issue there too. Bangkok's smoke is partly due to burning in Cambodia.
One of the best and informative video. Thumbs-up.
Really nice of you. Thanks!
@RetiredGlobalLife Iwas really appreciated with all the suggestion you have given to foreigners. As a Thai , may I say... no place like home. Khobkhun ka.
Sound advice. Many thanks
Thanks, Jonathan. Appreciate it.
Thailand offers a wealth based retirement system. This system takes full advantage of foreigners who aren't aware of issues related to living in Thailand.
Can you explain your comment? Thailand wants high earners here to spend $. All countries do. And they make it easier to get a visa, like LTR, when you have more $. But I see nothing in them taking advantage of those people. They can spend their $ as they wish. So what do you mean.
@@RetiredGlobalLifehi scott from New Zealand would 8million baht and pension last me at least ten years living in Thailand thank you for your advice
@@scottgeen3062no, you need a little more
A great video. I agree with 99%. I'm an Australian who has been visiting Thailand for 24 years. I met and married a Thai lady back in 2012, and had 7 years of great time together back in Australia until she wanted more than I could give and 3 years on we divorced, on the other hand my best friend dated and married a bar girl about a year before me, and not only are they happy and flourishing they are expecting 2nd child next month. Loyalty is most important because Thai women see temptation everyday.
Thanks so much, David, very good post.
Thanks for the insight
My pleasure!
Very honest and sensible video.
Appreciated!
I bought my Thai health insurance policy at 62. I am now 68. As you said it excludes preexisting conditions of which I have few. My strategy (and suggestion to others) is to buy a policy with a large deductible. That way you pay for routine health care out of pocket but you have coverage for anything serious. A large deductible keeps the cost down. For example, I bought a 10 million baht policy with a 40,000 baht deductible. I’ve never had a bill more that 20,000 baht. I’ve also set aside money to take care of health care costs, not covered by insurance, when I become old and frail.
I think a mistake people make is thinking you will just return home if you get sick. That may work if you have a heads up on cancer but won’t help you if you have a serious vehicle accident.
I chose to not pay for Medicare Part B. Another decision elderly Americans have to consider.
I will be amazed if a Thai insurance pays.
There be 20 reasons why they will not, and then you will have to take them to a Thai court. Good luck with that! 😂
Good advice re the large deductible. Routine medical care in Thailand is so cheap it is not a worry, whereas in the US the same minimal care would cost thousands.
Peter, what do you base that on? As an insured you have to read your policy to see what the underwriters agreed to cover. It is a contract. Many people do not bother with that but it is short-sighted. Many insurers don't pay because it is excluded. That being said, you are right about some of the "offshore" companies, which are not as reliable. But actual Thai companies, are quite solid IMO. Thanks for the input!
@@PeterBren My policy is with Pacific Cross. I know PC operates in the Philippines. It is a pretty big company. I’ve seen people who say that PC has paid their claims and some not. The question of which insurance company comes up often and there are always people that love a particular company or hate it. There are the people who don’t believe in insurance at all. I have the resources to cover my health care needs insurance or not. In the meantime I’m going to be optimistic about Pacific Cross.
I did have accident insurance through my bank. I made a claim and they paid promptly.
@RetiredGlobalLife I base it on the many reports of foreigners who were not paid on a claim. The worst are traffic accident claims. The only time they might pay is when the insured has been paying premiums for years, and the Thai company wants the premiums to continue.
Anyone been paid from a Thai insurance company on a short term policy?
I’ve been living in Chaingmai for over 12 years , now that I’m older I can’t tolerate the intense heat during April-June! But my S S goes so far hear I live much better then I could in the states !
Thanks, Danaiel. I bet you take that savings and spend some time at Samui or one of the islands. And escape the smoke Feb-April too.
@RetiredGlobalLife
Sounds like it'd be best to not be in CM for the 5 mths of Feb-June. So that leaves 6-7 mths in CM; good for long visits!
@@adad1270Yes I decided to go to Nepal for the hot season from now on! March to August I will be gone ! Over 100 degrees is crippling , plus the humidity is draining!❤
Very informative video 👍
I appreciate it Ricardo. Take care.
I have just watched this episode and think the points you brought up were very informative, keep up the good work, Keith
Thanks! Always nice to hear nice comments. Visit again.
Living in a country, and visiting are 2 different things altogether.
For sure. Takes a long visit, or several long visits, to get a real feel.
CM is nice place to live except the acute air pollution sometime of the each year. How do you coppe with it?
Like many people with the resources to do so, I try to take extended vacations or trips home in Feb/March/April.
Awesome video thank you
Glad you enjoyed it. Hope you visit us again.
videos like this are a dime a dozen, but this one is so genuine - really well done!
Very nice of you! Appreciated.
Chiangmai is fantastic in December/January but thats it, after that the toxic very high PM2.5 ruins it! Where I live our year round PM2.5 is between 0 and 5! Not 200+
Feb/March/April is the bad time, yes. Maybe a week of May. But after that, nice clean air IMO.
Except for February to April (2-3 months), Chiang Mai has together with the south the cleanest air in the country.
I just came back from Thailand to several weeks ago and that was enough for me to know that that's where I want to be. I'm back in the USA with my motorhome and Jeep Grand Cherokee up for sale. I'm going through all my camping gear selling it online and pretty soon I'll even sell my espresso maker and even clothes. My plan is a year in Bangkok in Riverside area. During that time I plan on getting some medical stuff done as well as dental. I've lived in Los Angeles, philadelphia, houston, Seattle, another smaller cities in the US and found Bangkok to be absolutely enjoyable. I wasn't crazy about the air quality when I was there. After that year maybe Chiang Mai, maybe even another country like the Philippines or Indonesia. As you say we can live on a lot less their. The last few years I've been spending my retirement money faster than I could make it. I know that the value from my money versus level of happiness will be far greater in Bangkok. I've been on the road in the US in my RV for the last 4 years since retiring at 62. I have two sons but neither one have kids or are married so I don't have to think about grandchildren anytime soon. And I'm gratefully single. I met some nice ladies over in Thailand while I was there, and some I will see you again. I love Thai women, there is definitely something special about them. But I don't think I ever want to be in a serious committed relationship again unless I'm sure of that person. And at 65, even though most people don't think I'm over 50, I don't have time for that. So I'm okay with having several girlfriends and I'll see you on a regular basis. And if I really need love I can always get another puppy.
One problem I found with most Thai women in the age group that I would really be looking say between 40 and 55.... They all have kids. Some more than one and sometimes those children are pretty young. Impossible to date when somebody is in that situation. I respect motherhood and I think their first commitment should always be to their children. There are Thai women out there with no children, but they're harder to find. I admit that the two ladies that I call friends work in a bar. I admit that I like them and they seem to like me. But I would never do anything serious with either one. I've met some Thai ladies on line who were educated and had good jobs. Those would definitely be the ones that I would focus on. I also remember a certain lady in a certain manicure shop that I would like to revisit and ask out. It's like being 18 again almost, but with pain LOL...
By the way thank you for that video you did on Medicare. I did switch to a Medicare advantage plan which not only saves me $150 a month almost but also gives me 90 days of coverage service for emergency coverage. I have gotten quotes from several different insurance companies about coverage in Thailand and they are super high premiums ridiculously high I'm almost 66 with no pre-existing conditions. So I will self-insure. I'll just use my credit and debit cards off of my retirement account to cover any medical needs while in country, and if I need to go back to the States hopefully I could do that.
Thanks for that sincere comment. Sounds like you have a lot of experience here already. We just have to get you out of the bars and meet just regular ladies. Being a westerner is usually considered desirable there, so I think you will find your interest in a quality woman will be returned, with a long-lasting relationship as a reward. I envy you your chance to travel around Thailand and decide the best place for you. What a great adventure.
I'm so glad it gave you helpful information. That's why I do this.
I don't know how we lived before CZcams and the internet.
I bet you won’t last 90 days