Staying in Pattaya now for a month and not sure if this is the place to
pick for my retirement,
You are right. Don't even think about it!
If not, you will end up joining the team that keeps complaining about every thing and anything eternally. Thai bashing will be the norm.
Enjoy your stay (if that is possible) and go back home to your normal comforts.
TBH I really feel sorry for these people who resort to these dangerous acts, just to make a living.
For some of us, it may be funny, or even call them stupid... but, that is a real life situation.