GypsyT

"If there's a will there's a way"

Now checking out DaLat, Vn. It's been 6 years from my last visit. So much better now! The weather is perfect for me; humidity 1% 6am, 8% 6pm. Nights are 13 to 18 C at night and 24-26 C during days. A little cold but still very comfortable. The air is VERY FRESH. Last night's New Year's how was beautiful (Jomtien "war man" would have died...) way to welcome 2024. Could I retire here? Yes, I could but many other places to check first along the sea. Good video w/o hype:

Yes, but what a party! Da Lat is SO beautiful now. And women give money! In Thailand they always ask or even take... Yes, I got a new 100 000VND bill from hotel's owner, an attractive lady, in colorful envelope. PS. Good luck to you. I was like you, not overly smart or clever in international travel but always had fun.

I suspect it's TAT making Ruzzians and Ukrainians feel home...

Cheap living (or just surviving and suffering?) in the U.S.A. https://homesonwheelsalliance.org/category/rtr/ Great movie; https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9770150/

I love low-rent Ryanair! It's what Sir Freddie's Laker Airways used to be in late '70s for us poor world travelers. Cheaper than bus... but you must be aware of all tricks and always remember you get a lot for pennies.

I feel for you but next time follow the rules; "You may prebook Special Assistance (Wheelchair Service) at the time of booking or via Purchases at least 4 hours before the scheduled flight departure time. Please note that failure to prebook may result in wheelchair service unavailable upon your arrival at the airport. For health and safety reasons, guests in wheelchairs must check-in at the airport. To view the charges for wheelchair assistance, you may refer to our Fees and Charges Schedule."

Route 332 has couple of cool places if you're on area; Fantastic cakes; http://www.sweetinfinityresort.com/index.php/fruit-cake.html Vintage spirit motel close to it; https://www.apinyaresortbangsaray.com/

Could be "Last 3 months bank statements" They ask that for visas etc. Time to PhotoShop....

I didn't know this was mandatory to be in Thailand!

Because we are only Cash Cows to all; Girls and the Government... Either you like it or get out.

Dumaguete weather by Weather Spark; 50% Miserable, rest of the time Oppressive. Otherwise very interesting place. https://weatherspark.com/y/139283/Average-Weather-in-Dumaguete-Philippines-Year-Round

CM 115 https://www.aqi.in/us/dashboard/thailand/chiang-mai Manila 25 - CM beats Manila hand down....

A month ago. At that 3 day holiday time. I wasn't the only one shown the door.

I was one day in Mexico City on the way to Lime, Peru. Barely could breath... and so smokey LA looked fresh compared to it. I got headache. Reason; Why is Mexico City so smoggy? "Located in the crater of an extinct volcano, Mexico City is about 2,240 metres above sea level. The lower atmospheric oxygen levels at this altitude cause incomplete fuel combustion in engines and higher emissions of carbon monoxide and other compounds. Intense sunlight turns these into higher than normal smog levels." Otherwise I agree; lot to see and very rich in arts but won't be back.

"think i got two choices.. going back to europe or trying get in via Cambodia. everything! luggage,cards,cash.. in condo where gf (longtime) is waiting." I've done 3 runs and noticed when I have Thai gf with me everything is so easy! They smile, say "Pls, this way Sir" and so on. Maybe she should join you and try again with her? Use "Thai only " line, like I did.

I think you did not have proper TM30. The first torture was for that in Blg B. The 2nd was for 30 day extension. The counter robots has no power to stamp anything. It's done by "specialists" in the van outside. There's a copy station now, no need to leave your spot on line. At least it worked for me fine. But you are right - the whole process is painful. PS. Dr Jack54- I was sent packing when I tried to get extension 4 days before expiration day. Was told to come back 2 days later and then, thanks to holiday and Sunday, it was processed 2 days too late but no fine. The whole system sucks...

Pick your city; https://happy-city-index.com/ - My favorite is Weelington, NZ

Sounds good! They just didn't know there were fresh meat in town...

55yrs age and visa 285usd/yearly

A friend of mine moved to San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato and built up nice business there. I had a chance to join 50-50 deal but that time LA still was OK so I stayed. One day I go to see him. The city is very beautiful. "In fact, it's one of the safest cities in all of Mexico, and is widely regarded as safer than some US cities. Many Mexicans jokingly refer to San Miguel de Allende as Disneyland because it's the sort of place that makes for a gentle introduction to Mexico, especially for first time visitors." But no place is 100% safe in Mexico. Is San Miguel de Allende safe from cartels? "Even in states where crime is very high, tourist areas have generally been spared. San Miguel de Allende, a haven for U.S. retirees, is an island of relative peace in a state, Guanajuato, that has been riddled with cartel violence.16 Mar 2023"

You mean Rompho? Not true now. Bars are full, market super busy and smiles everywhere.

That's the worse way to start relationship.... Thai gals are not stupid - she will dump you. Or change her plans to con you before you know it! Keep posted, blow-by-blow how it went.

Exactly! Like Laguna Seca race track in California. It's an iconic race track on most beautiful setting. https://www.thedrive.com/news/a-public-nuisance-laguna-secas-neighbors-sue-track-want-it-shut-down

Costa Rica and Panama are still good, even great. "Costa Rica is one of the few countries without armed forces and, alongside Panama" I've been to Costa Rica and ladies are similar to Thailand regarding friendliness toward farangs -:) Panama is using US $$$ so that's a plus. There are many beautiful islands and many expats from the US and other western countries. But as you say Thailand is one of the best but too much bureaucracy to my liking. The goalpost is always shifting... Maybe best to live in Cambodia (easy 12mo visa for $ 300) and make easy 30 day entries to Thailand and easy 45 day trips to Vietnam. No paperwork, just walk in.