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I am considering applying for a Retirement visa when back in UK to avoid the 65k/month or 800k THB here in Thailand. Their is a requirement for 800k THB equivalent to be held in UK account but the embassy online instructions do not state for how long it should be held. I emailed a question but got an automated reply with no answer. It seems as though just one month may be long enough to comply but I wonder if anyone has followed this UK route and if their are any pitfalls to avoid?

I am a single 53yo Brit working in Singapore, soon to retire to Thailand. I expect to play a lot of golf and enjoy the bars and lady scene. BKK is OK to visit but I do not want to live there. I am not a big fan of Pattaya due to the tourist levels and distance from BKK and airport. This leaves me looking at areas in between but I am not sure if there are any that would have a reasonable balance of expat companionship and nightlife with some pleasant beachside scenery.

I look on a map at Bang Saen, Si Racha and Laemchbang. Can anyone provide any advice on living in or around these areas as a single expat? These are all close to some good golf courses and the sea but I have no idea if they have some level of nightlife with expat communities to provide some balance.

I am concerned at being too isolated as a 'newcomer' to living in Thailand, although with many years of visiting experience. Any advice would be greatly appreciated