Advertorial Top 5 Retirement Destinations in Thailand (2022)

[ASEAN NOW]

 

Tropical weather, exotic locations, amazing delicacies, friendly locals, quality healthcare, and value-for-money living costs makes Thailand a popular retirement destination. Here, your pension or retirement savings could go a long way, and you can definitely live it up in style. Housekeeper? Check. Driver? Check. Private healthcare? Check.

 

If you’re convinced of this Southeast Asian gem, our friends at Pacific Prime Thailand will give a brief overview of the top 5 retirement destinations in the country.

1. Pattaya

 

Pattaya is around 150 km or a 2-hour drive away from the capital, Bangkok. With good road links, this means that you can head over to the Big Mango whenever you feel like it - taking advantage of everything the big city life has to offer. At the same time, you can also get all the advantages of living in a smaller, more affordable beach town. While Pattaya has a notorious reputation for its bar scene and nightlife, do you know that there’s so much more to the city than that? From its close proximity to the breathtaking Koh Larn to its street vendors, shopping malls, and golf course, you won’t be short of things to see and do in Pattaya.

2. Chiang Mai

Thailand’s northern region is known as the ‘Lanna’ region, rich in culture and heritage, as well as nature-filled activities. With its mountainous areas and its cooler temperatures (when compared to the rest of the country), Chiang Mai - the north’s largest city - makes for a pleasant city to live in. The best part? You’ll find the cost of living to be much cheaper, especially when comparing it to living in Bangkok or the islands in the south of the country. A word of warning: Be mindful of the poor air quality during the “smoky season” and invest in a good N95 mask to protect yourself.

 

Read more: The differences between N95 and surgical masks

3. Phuket

If you’re looking for a tropical paradise - large enough to have its own international airport, then Phuket will definitely be high up on your list. Located in the south of Thailand, and connected to the mainland by a bridge, you’ll find magnificent beaches and crystalline depths in Phuket - perfect for swimming and sunbathing, amongst malls, restaurants, bars, and night markets. Although transportation within the island may be a bit of a problem, you can always get a rentable scooter or taxi to make your way around. The only real downside is that the cost of living in Phuket can be quite high.

4. Hua Hin

 

Hua Hin’s laid back vibes make it the perfect weekend getaway for busy Bangkokians. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this sleepy beachtown is also home to a large Scandinavian crowd. In particular, expat retirees flock to Hua Hin to take advantage of its stunning coastal views, privacy and seclusion, as well as plenty of retail and dining options. Don’t be surprised if you see entire gated communities boasting affordable pool villas that are dedicated to expat retirees from Sweden, Norway, and more! Miss the big City? Not a problem. Bangkok is only a 3-hour drive away!

5. Koh Samui

Another pricey island to feature on this list, Koh Samui takes the fifth spot. This exclusive island is home to a breathtaking airport, with only Bangkok Airways allowed to touch down. That being said, there are long-winded ways to get to the island by getting a ferry across from Surat Thani. Beyond price and accessibility, Koh Samui is known to attract less tourists than Phuket, whilst still providing some amazing views. There’s no shortage of modern condos and facilities, including those that offer luxury living. Fancy a bite? You’ll also discover some great places to dine here.

 

Retiring in Thailand? Pacific Prime can help you secure health insurance for retirees in Thailand, long stay visa insurance for Thailand expats, and help you with all things insurance. Contact one of their friendly, knowledgeable, and impartial advisors today!