I am from Southern Spain and lived in Thailand for half year.
Personally, I don't see many upsides compare to my place, not even in overall costs. Regarding the lifestyle, the biggest difference is local food and shopping in a big city like Bangkok, as well as some exotic beaches (there is very little that can be labeled 'exotic' in my country AFAIK).
Eating out in Spain is usually quite more expensive and not as tasty, though portions are more generous (and much less spicy!). I think the biggest issue for retirees with a limited income would be renting. In places like Málaga, rents has gone up quite a bit the last few years. This is the cheapest you can find in Málaga at the moment, but a rent for a normal flat is now going for about 600 euros/month: https://www.idealista.com/en/alquiler-viviendas/malaga-malaga/?ordenado-por=precios-asc
In any case, my impression is that Thailand has shifted its focus on South East Asians. I know for a fact Thailand is a big destination for Hong Kongers and Mainland Chinese. Their cultures are much closer to each other as well, so for SE Asians it is a much more natural destination. As a Westerner though, Thailand is a nice place to visit, but I still prefer Southern Europe (or Australia, etc.). Of course, my Asian wife has the exact opposite preferences. She appreciates the eateries, the shopping, the closer culture, etc., and is more willing to put up with the bureaucracy. She finds Spain quite boring and alien by comparison.
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Are expats being tempted by Thailand?
in Thailand News
Posted
I am from Southern Spain and lived in Thailand for half year.
Personally, I don't see many upsides compare to my place, not even in overall costs. Regarding the lifestyle, the biggest difference is local food and shopping in a big city like Bangkok, as well as some exotic beaches (there is very little that can be labeled 'exotic' in my country AFAIK).
Eating out in Spain is usually quite more expensive and not as tasty, though portions are more generous (and much less spicy!). I think the biggest issue for retirees with a limited income would be renting. In places like Málaga, rents has gone up quite a bit the last few years. This is the cheapest you can find in Málaga at the moment, but a rent for a normal flat is now going for about 600 euros/month: https://www.idealista.com/en/alquiler-viviendas/malaga-malaga/?ordenado-por=precios-asc
In any case, my impression is that Thailand has shifted its focus on South East Asians. I know for a fact Thailand is a big destination for Hong Kongers and Mainland Chinese. Their cultures are much closer to each other as well, so for SE Asians it is a much more natural destination. As a Westerner though, Thailand is a nice place to visit, but I still prefer Southern Europe (or Australia, etc.). Of course, my Asian wife has the exact opposite preferences. She appreciates the eateries, the shopping, the closer culture, etc., and is more willing to put up with the bureaucracy. She finds Spain quite boring and alien by comparison.