We have lived on the very northern edge of Bangkok for 20 years. Our house in located between the 1st and 2nd stage motorways, so easy to escape. Some traffic, but not like the CBD, and neither is the pollution. Our small gated village is quiet, safe, peaceful and has lots of trees and scrubs. I fully agree with Briggsy's "plus aspects", and would like to add, you can get the best medical care in Thailand! And I'm talking about gov't hospitals, not private. The gov't doc who did both my shoulder surgeries is one of the very best in Thailand, and I could have had him do it at a famous private hospital for 4x the price. No, thanks. Remember, when you get older, excellent medical care becomes even more important. Also, note that from Bangkok you can easily drive to Pattaya, Hua Hin, Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai. Also, the best flight connections. We are very happy here.