I lived in Phan 20 years ago and visited regularly over the years.I spent a month there about 6 years ago.Nowt much had changed but to each our own i suppose.Now if i had met you there things might have been different.Oh well.
Stay where you feel safe and comfy.
Loads of 76 year olds here but all been here a while.
Big move to make at our age if you are not sure.
Insurance for over 70's is crippling here.
Good luck.
Only a suggestion mate but a trip to the Imm Office in (i'm guessing) Surathani would sort you out.
This has been bugging me for months but a trip to Jomtien Imm Office sorted it out for me in an hour.
Just told them i'd had a week in Bkk.
Good luck.
Get on the bus.
Reclining seats,food stops.Cross the border then come back and check into a hotel.Good nights sleep and bus back in the morning.All done cheaper than a shixxy van ride.