Top 10 troubles you will find during retirement in Thailand

[CharlieH]

The transition into retirement can be an intricate process, particularly if contemplating spending your later years in Thailand. Crafting a thorough strategy for this subsequent stage of life is crucial to facilitate this changeover, and vigilance of potential hurdles is vital to preserve balance during these years.

In the domain of financial investment, for example, one may encounter numerous difficulties. Each investment intrinsically possesses a certain degree of risk, and understanding this risk is indispensable to guarantee a steady income flow throughout retirement. As your investment portfolio broadens, it becomes essential to match your investment choices with your risk tolerance.

Another potential hurdle may arise from cultural and legal disparities. From handling liability in accidents to interacting with local law enforcement, anticipation and preparation for these situations can facilitate a smoother retirement transition in Thailand. We encourage you to continue reading as we explore these challenges further, offering a thorough guide to the top 10 issues you may potentially encounter during retirement in Thailand.

Common visa complications

When considering retirement in Thailand, one must prepare for possible visa complications. Let’s delve into the specifics.

Retirement visa requirements

Starting the retirement journey in Thailand means understanding the need for a Non-Immigrant O Retirement Visa, often just called a Retirement Visa. This type of visa allows retirees over 50 to legally stay in Thailand for one-year periods. It’s fairly easy to obtain, especially if you meet the age requirement. Furthermore, compared to most other visas, this one requires less paperwork. The main requirements are an age of 50 and above, along with a balance of 800,000 Baht in your bank. Remember not to treat this as a guarantee, since the requirements and procedures could change.

Long-term stay issues

If you’re thinking of extending your stay past retirement, be mindful of additional hurdles. For example, if you’re married to a Thai national, the Marriage Visa could seem like an appealing option. This visa allows you to work legally and has a financial requirement that’s half of the Retirement visa, at 400,000 Baht.

However, proving the legitimacy of your marriage can be a paperwork-intensive process. Be prepared with documentation like photographs of you and your spouse together, your marriage certificate, a map of your home, and additional evidence of your relationship. Also, Thai immigration might visit your home as part of the application process.

Financial concerns

Photo by Joey Huang on Unsplash

Financial security remains one of the primary concerns when planning a retirement in Thailand. Despite the lower cost of living compared with Western countries, certain financial aspects demand serious consideration.

Cost of living adjustments

Life in Thailand might initially appear relatively low-cost. However, you might experience unexpected cost-of-living adjustments. From the escalating costs of healthcare to yearly inflation, budgeting for retirement in Thailand demands a dynamic approach. Key aspects to consider range from daily expenses, like food and transportation, to larger investments such as real estate. For example, a retirement budget could escalate due to increased expenses in healthcare with age. High-quality healthcare services in Thailand often come at a premium price and they tend to increase annually.

Dual pricing system

Another crucial financial aspect to take into account is the dual pricing system, a prevalent practice in Thailand. It’s a system that applies different prices for locals and foreigners. Tourist attractions, local markets, and certain services are examples where this differential pricing is apparent. This system might significantly influence your retirement budget. It’s advisable to take some time to understand the local market rates to avoid overpaying for goods and services. Remember, knowledge is the best defence against overpriced fees.

Healthcare challenges

Photo by Marie-Sophie Tékian on Unsplash

Navigating healthcare hurdles forms a considerable part of retirement planning, especially for retirees relocating to international destinations like Thailand. Let’s consider two significant aspects: healthcare service access and insurance mandates.

Access to healthcare services

Retirement in Thailand can come with a host of healthcare challenges, foremost among them being accessibility to healthcare services. Differences in language, treatment styles, and practices can cause a disconcerting experience for many retirees. So, navigating this unfamiliar territory becomes crucial. Picking up basic medical terms in the local language, understanding the appointment procedure, and knowing your way around local pharmacy etiquette can smooth out some of these challenges.

Insurance requirements

Thailand has specific health insurance stipulations for long-term visas. For instance, the LTR visa and the OX visa necessitate certain insurance prerequisites. In the case of an OX visa, your insurance plan must cover a minimum of THB 400,000 (~11000 USD) for inpatients and THB 40,000 (~1100 USD) for outpatients. Further, the policy must include coverage of COVID-19 treatment and be issued by a licensed insurance company operating in Thailand. Fulfilling these

insurance parameters ensures a safety net in case of health emergencies.

 

Cultural and social adjustment

Photo by Galen Crout on Unsplash

As you journey into retirement in Thailand, keep in mind that cultural and social factors can greatly impact your quality of life. This involves not just adapting to a new social environment, but also understanding the nuances of the Thai culture. Let’s delve into some areas that might need your attention.

Language barrier issues

Navigating through the labyrinth of a new language could be your greatest challenge upon retiring in Thailand. Thai language, quite alien to the English-speaking world, demands an understanding of five distinguishing tones, each potentially changing the meaning of a word. For instance, a change in tone can turn a harmless word into a potentially offensive term, creating embarrassing situations or misunderstandings. Acquiring a basic knowledge of Thai can be immensely helpful in these circumstances. Engaging in a Thai language course or hiring a language tutor serves to ease this transition.

Relationships and community

Building relationships and integrating into the Thai community forms a crucial part of acclimatisation. Thais are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, providing a welcoming environment for foreigners. However, understanding the underlying social etiquettes and norms aids smoother relationships. Thai people highly regard respect for their monarchy, religion (Buddhism), and elders. Don’t be surprised when you see locals halting to play the national anthem twice a day; It’s part of their DNA. Similarly, offensive gestures or words against the monarchy or religion might invoke stringent legal actions.

Property ownership restrictions

Navigating property ownership restrictions presents a hurdle during retirement in Thailand. Thailand’s laws limit foreign property ownership, proving a challenge to overseas retirees. Be aware, legal stipulations essentially prohibit foreigners from owning freehold land. However, there exist legal routes for real estate acquisition. Explore obtaining a long-term lease on land, typically extending for an initial 30 years. Under this arrangement, you lease the land but can own the property built upon it.

Legal and bureaucratic hurdles

As you embark on the journey of retirement in Thailand, expect to encounter legal hurdles and paperwork inundations. The Thai system has a significant leaning towards bureaucracy, and a proper understanding of the process can ensure smooth navigation through the red tape.

Thai paperwork and procedures

Thailand adores paperwork. Even for the simplest tasks, expect a flurry of documents and forms. At first glance, you might be overwhelmed by the required paperwork. Whether it’s applying for a visa, opening a bank account, purchasing property or even going through a traffic violation, you’ll need to sign, stamp and submit countless forms. Computers and modern banking have yet to diminish this trend. Developing efficient document management skills can help you manage the paperwork effectively.

Legal services accessibility

Understanding Thai laws and regulations can be a considerable challenge, particularly if you’re not fluent in the Thai language. If you find yourself involved in any legal situation—from property disputes to visa issues—consider hiring a professional to help. Perhaps you are dealing with a traffic accident or engaging in some form of legal transaction; in such cases, it’s advisable to get someone who speaks Thai, like the local Tourist Police or a knowledgeable acquaintance, to help you wade through potential problems. While confrontation might seem a viable option in certain circumstances, it seldom yields favourable results in Thailand.

Transportation and driving

Photo by Nguyen Thu Hoai on Unsplash

Obtaining a driving license

Embarking on the journey of securing a driving license in Thailand involves stepping into a world abundant in paperwork. Thais and their bureaucratic system have an affinity for documentation that may perplex you. Prepare for the creation of paperwork even for the simplest tasks. While the introduction of modern banking and computing systems has streamlined many processes, the concept of the ‘paper trail’ remains deeply ingrained in Thai society. Do not get caught off-guard by the two Thai nationals required to act as your guarantors; relatives, however, are not deemed acceptable for this role.

Road safety concerns

Navigating Thailand’s roads presents its unique set of challenges, and sadly road safety becomes a prominent concern as metrics indicate an unacceptable toll. Crucial seasons such as Christmas or New Year, and Songkran, which marks the Thai New Year, witness a considerable rise in road accidents. Despite the government’s efforts and law changes, drunk driving and high speeding remain the two main culprits behind the overwhelming number of incidents. The laws on alcohol advertising border draconian, yet the important message around driving under the influence struggles to make its mark.

Environmental and climate considerations

Experiencing retirement in Thailand includes navigating the country’s environmental and climate traits. One key consideration, Thailand’s tropical climate, can challenge those unaccustomed to it. The government generally sees two major seasons: hot and humid, extending from March to June, and rainy, engulfing the land from July to October. However, from November to February, a milder and more favourable climate prevails, making it an ideal time for retirees to explore the country’s natural beauty.

Remember that adapting to these weather fluctuations can take some time, especially the humidity. It’s common for people from temperate climates to find the intense heat and humidity discomforting initially. Frequent hydration, shade-seeking, and proper sun protection become the main elements in the routine.

Achieving life satisfaction and quality enjoyment in retirement involves maintaining good health, fostering strong relationships, engaging in fulfilling activities, and achieving financial stability, all of which contribute to a rewarding and contented post-career phase,

[advancebooking]

The language issue is a big factor to consider. If moving here I highly recommend joining a language school and getting group or private lessons. Ive been doing this for 2 yrs now and now intermediate level. Im testing my brain all the time by trying to remember vocab and think its an excellent way to keep the brain active in ones older years. Its sociable as well to be going to the language school- 3 times a week for me!

[OneMoreFarang]

1 minute ago, advancebooking said:

The language issue is a big factor to consider. If moving here I highly recommend joining a language school and getting group or private lessons. Ive been doing this for 2 yrs now and now intermediate level. Im testing my brain all the time by trying to remember vocab and think its an excellent way to keep the brain active in ones older years. Its sociable as well to be going to the language school- 3 times a week for me!

Learning "the language" is important, I agree.

But be careful that you don't learn in school one version of Thai, and then everybody near you speaks another version of Thai.

I suggest if possible, try to communicate with the locals around you. And make sure you have someone, maybe a Thai language teacher, to tell you which words you should not use.

With my first Thai girlfriend I learned a couple of Thai swear words. The only problem was that I was not aware that those words were not the kind of words one should use in a polite conversation. It's easy to pick up the "wrong" words.

On the other hand, it is also not the best to speak super polite Thai all the time, because "normal" Thais might get the impression that you think you are better than them when you use those "hiso" words. It can go wrong in both directions. 

 

[Presnock]

23 minutes ago, CharlieH said:

The transition into retirement can be an intricate process, particularly if contemplating spending your later years in Thailand. Crafting a thorough strategy for this subsequent stage of life is crucial to facilitate this changeover, and vigilance of potential hurdles is vital to preserve balance during these years.

In the domain of financial investment, for example, one may encounter numerous difficulties. Each investment intrinsically possesses a certain degree of risk, and understanding this risk is indispensable to guarantee a steady income flow throughout retirement. As your investment portfolio broadens, it becomes essential to match your investment choices with your risk tolerance.

Another potential hurdle may arise from cultural and legal disparities. From handling liability in accidents to interacting with local law enforcement, anticipation and preparation for these situations can facilitate a smoother retirement transition in Thailand. We encourage you to continue reading as we explore these challenges further, offering a thorough guide to the top 10 issues you may potentially encounter during retirement in Thailand.

Common visa complications

When considering retirement in Thailand, one must prepare for possible visa complications. Let’s delve into the specifics.

Retirement visa requirements

Starting the retirement journey in Thailand means understanding the need for a Non-Immigrant O Retirement Visa, often just called a Retirement Visa. This type of visa allows retirees over 50 to legally stay in Thailand for one-year periods. It’s fairly easy to obtain, especially if you meet the age requirement. Furthermore, compared to most other visas, this one requires less paperwork. The main requirements are an age of 50 and above, along with a balance of 800,000 Baht in your bank. Remember not to treat this as a guarantee, since the requirements and procedures could change.

Long-term stay issues

If you’re thinking of extending your stay past retirement, be mindful of additional hurdles. For example, if you’re married to a Thai national, the Marriage Visa could seem like an appealing option. This visa allows you to work legally and has a financial requirement that’s half of the Retirement visa, at 400,000 Baht.

However, proving the legitimacy of your marriage can be a paperwork-intensive process. Be prepared with documentation like photographs of you and your spouse together, your marriage certificate, a map of your home, and additional evidence of your relationship. Also, Thai immigration might visit your home as part of the application process.

Financial concerns

Photo by Joey Huang on Unsplash

Financial security remains one of the primary concerns when planning a retirement in Thailand. Despite the lower cost of living compared with Western countries, certain financial aspects demand serious consideration.

Cost of living adjustments

Life in Thailand might initially appear relatively low-cost. However, you might experience unexpected cost-of-living adjustments. From the escalating costs of healthcare to yearly inflation, budgeting for retirement in Thailand demands a dynamic approach. Key aspects to consider range from daily expenses, like food and transportation, to larger investments such as real estate. For example, a retirement budget could escalate due to increased expenses in healthcare with age. High-quality healthcare services in Thailand often come at a premium price and they tend to increase annually.

Dual pricing system

Another crucial financial aspect to take into account is the dual pricing system, a prevalent practice in Thailand. It’s a system that applies different prices for locals and foreigners. Tourist attractions, local markets, and certain services are examples where this differential pricing is apparent. This system might significantly influence your retirement budget. It’s advisable to take some time to understand the local market rates to avoid overpaying for goods and services. Remember, knowledge is the best defence against overpriced fees.

Healthcare challenges

Photo by Marie-Sophie Tékian on Unsplash

Navigating healthcare hurdles forms a considerable part of retirement planning, especially for retirees relocating to international destinations like Thailand. Let’s consider two significant aspects: healthcare service access and insurance mandates.

Access to healthcare services

Retirement in Thailand can come with a host of healthcare challenges, foremost among them being accessibility to healthcare services. Differences in language, treatment styles, and practices can cause a disconcerting experience for many retirees. So, navigating this unfamiliar territory becomes crucial. Picking up basic medical terms in the local language, understanding the appointment procedure, and knowing your way around local pharmacy etiquette can smooth out some of these challenges.

Insurance requirements

Thailand has specific health insurance stipulations for long-term visas. For instance, the LTR visa and the OX visa necessitate certain insurance prerequisites. In the case of an OX visa, your insurance plan must cover a minimum of THB 400,000 (~11000 USD) for inpatients and THB 40,000 (~1100 USD) for outpatients. Further, the policy must include coverage of COVID-19 treatment and be issued by a licensed insurance company operating in Thailand. Fulfilling these insurance parameters ensures a safety net in case of health emergencies.

Cultural and social adjustment

Photo by Galen Crout on Unsplash

As you journey into retirement in Thailand, keep in mind that cultural and social factors can greatly impact your quality of life. This involves not just adapting to a new social environment, but also understanding the nuances of the Thai culture. Let’s delve into some areas that might need your attention.

Language barrier issues

Navigating through the labyrinth of a new language could be your greatest challenge upon retiring in Thailand. Thai language, quite alien to the English-speaking world, demands an understanding of five distinguishing tones, each potentially changing the meaning of a word. For instance, a change in tone can turn a harmless word into a potentially offensive term, creating embarrassing situations or misunderstandings. Acquiring a basic knowledge of Thai can be immensely helpful in these circumstances. Engaging in a Thai language course or hiring a language tutor serves to ease this transition.

Relationships and community

Building relationships and integrating into the Thai community forms a crucial part of acclimatisation. Thais are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, providing a welcoming environment for foreigners. However, understanding the underlying social etiquettes and norms aids smoother relationships. Thai people highly regard respect for their monarchy, religion (Buddhism), and elders. Don’t be surprised when you see locals halting to play the national anthem twice a day; It’s part of their DNA. Similarly, offensive gestures or words against the monarchy or religion might invoke stringent legal actions.

Property ownership restrictions

Navigating property ownership restrictions presents a hurdle during retirement in Thailand. Thailand’s laws limit foreign property ownership, proving a challenge to overseas retirees. Be aware, legal stipulations essentially prohibit foreigners from owning freehold land. However, there exist legal routes for real estate acquisition. Explore obtaining a long-term lease on land, typically extending for an initial 30 years. Under this arrangement, you lease the land but can own the property built upon it.

Legal and bureaucratic hurdles

As you embark on the journey of retirement in Thailand, expect to encounter legal hurdles and paperwork inundations. The Thai system has a significant leaning towards bureaucracy, and a proper understanding of the process can ensure smooth navigation through the red tape.

Thai paperwork and procedures

Thailand adores paperwork. Even for the simplest tasks, expect a flurry of documents and forms. At first glance, you might be overwhelmed by the required paperwork. Whether it’s applying for a visa, opening a bank account, purchasing property or even going through a traffic violation, you’ll need to sign, stamp and submit countless forms. Computers and modern banking have yet to diminish this trend. Developing efficient document management skills can help you manage the paperwork effectively.

Legal services accessibility

Understanding Thai laws and regulations can be a considerable challenge, particularly if you’re not fluent in the Thai language. If you find yourself involved in any legal situation—from property disputes to visa issues—consider hiring a professional to help. Perhaps you are dealing with a traffic accident or engaging in some form of legal transaction; in such cases, it’s advisable to get someone who speaks Thai, like the local Tourist Police or a knowledgeable acquaintance, to help you wade through potential problems. While confrontation might seem a viable option in certain circumstances, it seldom yields favourable results in Thailand.

Transportation and driving

Photo by Nguyen Thu Hoai on Unsplash

Obtaining a driving license

Embarking on the journey of securing a driving license in Thailand involves stepping into a world abundant in paperwork. Thais and their bureaucratic system have an affinity for documentation that may perplex you. Prepare for the creation of paperwork even for the simplest tasks. While the introduction of modern banking and computing systems has streamlined many processes, the concept of the ‘paper trail’ remains deeply ingrained in Thai society. Do not get caught off-guard by the two Thai nationals required to act as your guarantors; relatives, however, are not deemed acceptable for this role.

Road safety concerns

Navigating Thailand’s roads presents its unique set of challenges, and sadly road safety becomes a prominent concern as metrics indicate an unacceptable toll. Crucial seasons such as Christmas or New Year, and Songkran, which marks the Thai New Year, witness a considerable rise in road accidents. Despite the government’s efforts and law changes, drunk driving and high speeding remain the two main culprits behind the overwhelming number of incidents. The laws on alcohol advertising border draconian, yet the important message around driving under the influence struggles to make its mark.

Environmental and climate considerations

Experiencing retirement in Thailand includes navigating the country’s environmental and climate traits. One key consideration, Thailand’s tropical climate, can challenge those unaccustomed to it. The government generally sees two major seasons: hot and humid, extending from March to June, and rainy, engulfing the land from July to October. However, from November to February, a milder and more favourable climate prevails, making it an ideal time for retirees to explore the country’s natural beauty.

Remember that adapting to these weather fluctuations can take some time, especially the humidity. It’s common for people from temperate climates to find the intense heat and humidity discomforting initially. Frequent hydration, shade-seeking, and proper sun protection become the main elements in the routine.

Achieving life satisfaction and quality enjoyment in retirement involves maintaining good health, fostering strong relationships, engaging in fulfilling activities, and achieving financial stability, all of which contribute to a rewarding and contented post-career phase,

I think a bit of a diservice was made in the visa section - I found that the wealthy pensioner LTR from the BOI to be the least amount of paperwork needed for the visa and for the yearly notification of residence (varies of course here need to read the actual benefit) and then the fifth-year renewal, again with limited amount of paperwork needed.  If one meets the requirements of this 1 of 4 visas offered, then this can be the easiest visa to obtain and maintain.  It is for me anyway, I had a retirement O for 20 years but now have the LTR.  Good luck.

[Peterphuket]

After reading about all the problems for staying when you are retired, I don't understand how there are still people who want to stay here till death.
Personally, I have no choice, so I will hold out until death.

[Will B Good]

They missed out bread.

 

Got to get me a bread maker.

[Thailand]

2 minutes ago, Will B Good said:

They missed out bread.

 

Got to get me a bread maker.

Married one!

[J Branche]

Definitely learn that if a complication arises with a Thai it is best to deal with it and a calm and professional manner.  The saying "Kill them with kindness" should be learned.  If you stay long term other Thais recognize your efforts and are more giving and willing to help.

[Will B Good]

2 minutes ago, Thailand said:

Married one!

 

A baker or someone with a bread maker?

 

If the latter, which machine....?

[Will B Good]

1 minute ago, J Branche said:

Definitely learn that if a complication arises with a Thai it is best to deal with it and a calm and professional manner.  The saying "Kill them with kindness" should be learned.  If you stay long term other Thais recognize your efforts and are more giving and willing to help.

 

 

Talking to one of my kids who has to deal with the most stupid, selfish members of the public.....and she does that....'kills them with kindness.'

 

The more obnoxious and rude the customer, the sweeter and kinder she becomes.....drives them mad.

[Thailand]

18 minutes ago, Will B Good said:

 

A baker or someone with a bread maker?

 

If the latter, which machine....?

Someone who makes THE best bread, and all round great cook!

[Will B Good]

2 minutes ago, Thailand said:

Someone who makes THE best bread, and all round great cook!

 

 

NOOOOOO!

 

Got to get myself sorted on the bread front.

[Thailand]

33 minutes ago, Will B Good said:

 

 

NOOOOOO!

 

Got to get myself sorted on the bread front.

Just one style straight out of the oven. Awesome toasted!

[advancebooking]

10 minutes ago, Thailand said:

Just one style straight out of the oven. Awesome toasted!

for us numbskulls, could you please write down step by step exactly how to make that bread. Give all ingredients and steps. thanks

[KannikaP]

On 8/7/2024 at 10:46 AM, CharlieH said:

The main requirements are an age of 50 and above, along with a balance of 800,000 Baht in your bank.

What about the 65k per month, or the Combination Method?

[Cameroni]

1 hour ago, Will B Good said:

They missed out bread.

 

Got to get me a bread maker.

#

Amen to that. Chiang Mai is blessed with a world class french baker at L'Opera and St Etoil and Supermarkets make an effort, but bread is a major issue.

[SingAPorn]

The No 1 issue that will push many to leave Thailand and discourage others to come here, would be the new tax rules.

[PuiPuiHarry]

On 8/7/2024 at 6:06 AM, OneMoreFarang said:

Learning "the language" is important, I agree.

But be careful that you don't learn in school one version of Thai, and then everybody near you speaks another version of Thai.

I suggest if possible, try to communicate with the locals around you. And make sure you have someone, maybe a Thai language teacher, to tell you which words you should not use.

With my first Thai girlfriend I learned a couple of Thai swear words. The only problem was that I was not aware that those words were not the kind of words one should use in a polite conversation. It's easy to pick up the "wrong" words.

On the other hand, it is also not the best to speak super polite Thai all the time, because "normal" Thais might get the impression that you think you are better than them when you use those "hiso" words. It can go wrong in both directions. 

In all my – business – travels through Thailand since 1993, I never had any problem with Thais thinking, because my limited vocabulary/pronunciation was more "hiso", I felt to be better then them. They always appreciated my - farang -attitude to learn some of their language and could write and read a little. Even when I used a complete wrong pronunciation.  I think it is more in which "circles" you are.

[Thailand]

2 hours ago, advancebooking said:

for us numbskulls, could you please write down step by step exactly how to make that bread. Give all ingredients and steps. thanks

Step 1 is that I tell the wife we are nearly out of bread and she makes some more and I eat most of it, about as much as I know!

[Lorry]

On 8/7/2024 at 11:06 AM, OneMoreFarang said:

On the other hand, it is also not the best to speak super polite Thai all the time

Correct,  but what you and most Thais call "polite Thai" is really formal Thai.

Example: it is very rude,  absolutely not polite, to use ผม to your girlfriend (I mean real gf like in the West, you and here being of similar age and status).

Pronouns like คุน etc express distance,  not politeness. 

Try "Ud." with a Spanish girl, or "Sie" with a German one.

On 8/7/2024 at 11:06 AM, OneMoreFarang said:

"normal" Thais might get the impression that you think you are better than them when you use those "hiso" word

Not really. 

But they might get the impression you are cold, stand-offish - if your Thai is otherwise very good.

 

[Purdey]

I found it works with friends, to use your first name instead of pronouns. 

Purdey thinks that's a good idea. 

Purdey likes coffee etc.

 

[mokwit]

No country for old men.

[Will B Good]

5 minutes ago, Purdey said:

I found it works with friends, to use your first name instead of pronouns. 

Purdey thinks that's a good idea. 

Purdey likes coffee etc.

 

 

 

OMG..... that sounds so freaky in English.

[KhunLA]

A very wee bit of research, and a well planned retirement avoids all that silliness in the OP.

 

An intelligent person would live in TH, or foreign country, for at least 1 year, before burning their bridges in home country.

[Lacessit]

45 minutes ago, mokwit said:

No country for old men.

Disagree. It's much better for me than my country of origin.

 

A lot of the problems mentioned in the OP are simply a learning curve.

 

I have to say I have not noticed any significant price inflation. The cost of condos to buy or rent has not moved for ten years. Neither has the cost of a retirement extension.

 

There might be some movement in food, but it is too small to affect me.

[Lacessit]

40 minutes ago, KhunLA said:

A very wee bit of research, and a well planned retirement avoids all that silliness in the OP.

 

An intelligent person would live in TH, or foreign country, for at least 1 year, before burning their bridges in home country.

Agree. I researched Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia and Laos for six months before settling on Thailand.

 

After more than ten years here, I still have not burned my bridges. I have money and a place to stay in Australia, and maintain private health insurance there.

 

My rule of thumb was to have 30% of my assets here, 70% in Australia. It's down to 65% now.

[jaideedave]

36 minutes ago, Lacessit said:

Disagree. It's much better for me than my country of origin.

 

A lot of the problems mentioned in the OP are simply a learning curve.

 

I have to say I have not noticed any significant price inflation. The cost of condos to buy or rent has not moved for ten years. Neither has the cost of a retirement extension.

 

There might be some movement in food, but it is too small to affect me.

"The cost of condos to buy or rent has not moved for ten years." Lacessit>...in 2004 I rented a 25 sq meter studio at Diana Estates on Soi Buakao for 13k/Mon. I thought it was a bargain because of it's location and amenities ( near p4p)

Full circle now I'm staying temporarily in a 1 br 35 sq meter quiet condo Jomtien 5 years old for 11k/Mon with more amenities than Diana. Buying a condo then would probably been a poor investment.

[mokwit]

48 minutes ago, Lacessit said:

After more than ten years here, I still have not burned my bridges. I have money and a place to stay in Australia, and maintain private health insurance there.

Agree. Don't burn your bridges, especially your healthcare and place to stay bridges. Everybody gets old and many get sick in old age. Also many find out after a few months/years that Thailand is not for them.

[Purdey]

16 hours ago, Will B Good said:

 

 

OMG..... that sounds so freaky in English.

Harry Potter's Dobby does it. 😁 Also it seems common in Thailand's South.

https://aseannow.com/topic/15620-referring-to-oneself-by-ones-name/

 

[radiochaser]

17 hours ago, KhunLA said:

A very wee bit of research, and a well planned retirement avoids all that silliness in the OP.

 

An intelligent person would live in TH, or foreign country, for at least 1 year, before burning their bridges in home country.

If I were to live in Thailand for a year, by my self, my wife might like it so much, she might burn the bridges herself!   😁