Leaving Thailand for good

[EmptyHead]

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My home is in the South of England. I rent out property there at an amazing high price.So home is ok,well not so it is far too cold and the girls are old and frumpy. The weather here in North Thailand is far more comfortable and pleasant for me. So I spend 11 months of the year here. and can afford to run loads of mosquito traps. Well the mossies are a disadvantage . The locals in the North are fairly friendly even though I do not speak Thai

The girls are old?

That doesn't even make sense.

I think he means that back home he can't score young girls in short shorts, but only old frumpy ones his own age.

[Farang99]

I am here 2 years now and I have decided I will not renew my retirement visa next year.

I miss:

beautiful national parks in the US

beautiful coastlines that are not full of litter

forests that actually have abundant wildlife

fresh seafood in the Pacific Northwest

sea kayaking in the PNW being able to buy a real sea kayak, custom fitted to me

the best tasting beer in the world

the best mountain biking in the world and being able to buy a mountain bike in my size

being able to own land and a home in my name

having an intelligent conversation

being about to go listen to live music, going to a concert of someone famous

being able to call 911 and having a well trained paramedic arrive

reliable postal delivery of something important and expensive

I have great health care from my government pension so that is not an issue.

I understand the people that will stay here until the end are many are from UK.

There are some very beautiful places in the US/Canada.

I will take back my thai cooking skills and my defensive motorcycling skills are much better.

nothing here in LOS blew me away... it is not at all paradise to me. I enjoyed the chaos to some extent and loved going to the food markets. I enjoyed motorcycling some of the mountains up north and visiting the hill tribe people and the small villages along the off beaten roads. Cool people there.

BUT, I am cheating myself out a great retirement life living here. I also think it is unsafe and unhealthy living here.

I have many great memories and wonderful adventures awaiting me in the states and I can afford a good life there. This was a stop off to sort out my life after turning 50, retiring and getting a divorce... it has played out for me, time to go enjoy life and have fun.

I will most likely go to Bali for 2 months during the winter if I return to SEA, but more than likely my trips will be South America or Eastern Europe.

"the best tasting beer in the world"?

All the mainstream US beers I have tried, bar the micro breweries have been totally without flavour. Here you can get good German and Austrian beers at reasonable prices - if you drink at home and don't pay bar prices.

[car720]

Everything is cheaper here as long as you don,t spend your life in bars, KFC, Burger King and buying foreign food in Lotus like the majority of the moaners that hate it here do. I have had some beautiful homes here for less than 3000 baht a month. Where ? I am not stupid enough to give up that information. Why? Once the foreigners flood in kiss paradise goodbye. I repeat i did not move half way around the world to hang with a bunch of foreigners. I came here to live with the Thais. If your too stupid not to be able to live here cheaply and very well start your learning process by putting the bottle down.

I pay 2200 THB a month for a 3 bedroom brick and tile, fully furnished home in Thailand.

That is 7.5% of my salary.

Where in the west will I do that. Tell me and I will go there.

.

I've been in a number of 2200 baht a month places in Thailand, which makes you Stevie Wonder.

How about posting some photos?

But here we go with the "rent is cheaper here, so everything must be."

Ok, here's one.

IMG_00000152.jpg

That is not to say that Thailand doesn't have lots of dangers but if you are a quick study then you can survive and survive well and have a lot of fun doing it. For me life is a learning experience day by day.

[ScarpoFongness4U]

I am back in the US from my lat visit to Thailand, last month

the weather in Florida was 4.4 C this morning, with an average this week of 21C daytime

no air pollution,

no grime in the nostrils

no motorbikes on the sidwalk,

no street peddlars taking up the sidewalks

the people who claim the US is out of reach financially, are speaking only of city centers and coasts

yes, Thailand is much cheaper,

but it is only a nice place to visit,

living there, is a continuos compromise of health and mental well being, in between the moments of enjoyment

I can ride to the ocean here, and see all the pretty young females, all seeking men,

the difference is the cost,

which, regarding alcohol, is no different that Thailand,

the girls?

well, that is always a question of price, isn't it

they all want to get married here too,

and many of them have kids too,

what makes them different than the Thai girls?

their figures are different, as Thai girls are much smaller

people claiming the US is out of reach, have never strived to be more than what they are

[VIPinthailand]

problem in the USA it s very hard to make any friend. here it s much easier. European and Thai are much more friendly than the USA guys. In USA you get a "hi" and nothing else.

the guys who set the Boston bomb said they have no US friends.

This is don't understand. Most of my best friends in the USA I have since about 1970 or before. My best friend has been a friend since before we attended school. His dad was our family doctor and he is a retired heart surgeon.

I won't make friends hanging in bars or shopping malls. To make new friends I'd have to join some civic clubs etc. and be around people I have something in common with.

I don't judge any Western nationality by what I see in Thailand. I don't believe that expats are necessarily representative of the country they came from as a whole.

probably you friend is from Europe. most guys born in the USA are obnoxious and real first degree minded. (their jokes are about sex mainly and most US guys insult women)

they will just invite you to see the super ball and eat turkey while watching dumb TV with guys chasing a ball that is not even oval.

their conversation is just gossiping as they have been nowhere except a trip or two to Las Vegas.

(so they can say they have been to Paris and Venice)

believe me, I know the USA, it' s just a terrible country filled with zombies, Wal Marts , churches and fast foods at every corner.

don't talk to them about Thailand, they all think it's a town in Mexico.

back to USA? no thanks!

Edited February 20, 2015 by VIPinthailand

[NeverSure]

problem in the USA it s very hard to make any friend. here it s much easier. European and Thai are much more friendly than the USA guys. In USA you get a "hi" and nothing else.

the guys who set the Boston bomb said they have no US friends.

This is don't understand. Most of my best friends in the USA I have since about 1970 or before. My best friend has been a friend since before we attended school. His dad was our family doctor and he is a retired heart surgeon.

I won't make friends hanging in bars or shopping malls. To make new friends I'd have to join some civic clubs etc. and be around people I have something in common with.

I don't judge any Western nationality by what I see in Thailand. I don't believe that expats are necessarily representative of the country they came from as a whole.

probably you friend is from Europe. most guys born in the USA are obnoxious and real first degree minded. (their jokes are about sex mainly and most US guys insult women)

they will just invite you to see the super ball and eat turkey while watching dumb TV with guys chasing a ball that is not even oval.

their conversation is just gossiping as they have been nowhere except a trip or two to Las Vegas.

(so they can say they have been to Paris and Venice)

believe me, I know the USA, it' s just a terrible country filled with zombies, Wal Marts , churches and fast foods at every corner.

don't talk to them about Thailand, they all think it's a town in Mexico.

back to USA? no thanks!

What dumb post.

[NeverSure]

I am back in the US from my lat visit to Thailand, last month

the weather in Florida was 4.4 C this morning, with an average this week of 21C daytime

no air pollution,

no grime in the nostrils

no motorbikes on the sidwalk,

no street peddlars taking up the sidewalks

the people who claim the US is out of reach financially, are speaking only of city centers and coasts

yes, Thailand is much cheaper,

but it is only a nice place to visit,

living there, is a continuos compromise of health and mental well being, in between the moments of enjoyment

I can ride to the ocean here, and see all the pretty young females, all seeking men,

the difference is the cost,

which, regarding alcohol, is no different that Thailand,

the girls?

well, that is always a question of price, isn't it

they all want to get married here too,

and many of them have kids too,

what makes them different than the Thai girls?

their figures are different, as Thai girls are much smaller

people claiming the US is out of reach, have never strived to be more than what they are

Good post. For me Thailand isn't cheaper because I wouldn't change my lifestyle. Thailand might be cheaper If I gave up what I'm used to, but then I could do that in the US.

For those of us who planned for retirement and have a house and all else that's paid for, the US is actually cheaper in many ways especially if you go out to buy something. Car, electronics, clothes, western food...

The only exception would be to live in a state with crushing taxes such as California. There's no escaping it but its a liberal nanny state that taxes heavily to pay for social crap. It's ridiculous.

All of the really nice things you mentioned are very true and I can't live in Thailand because of the filth. I like to visit for a while and then I have to go "home".

Edited February 20, 2015 by NeverSure

[MZurf]

I am back in the US from my lat visit to Thailand, last month

the weather in Florida was 4.4 C this morning, with an average this week of 21C daytime

But, but...was CSI Miami lying???

[fey]

I am back in the US from my lat visit to Thailand, last month

the weather in Florida was 4.4 C this morning, with an average this week of 21C daytime

no air pollution,

no grime in the nostrils

no motorbikes on the sidwalk,

no street peddlars taking up the sidewalks

the people who claim the US is out of reach financially, are speaking only of city centers and coasts

yes, Thailand is much cheaper,

but it is only a nice place to visit,

living there, is a continuos compromise of health and mental well being, in between the moments of enjoyment

I can ride to the ocean here, and see all the pretty young females, all seeking men,

the difference is the cost,

which, regarding alcohol, is no different that Thailand,

the girls?

well, that is always a question of price, isn't it

they all want to get married here too,

and many of them have kids too,

what makes them different than the Thai girls?

their figures are different, as Thai girls are much smaller

people claiming the US is out of reach, have never strived to be more than what they are

why are you visiting thailand then if things are so great there? save the airfare next time. if its just a change of scene you need there are plenty of closer places to go like cuba or mexico. say hi to scarface.

[Berkshire]

I am back in the US from my lat visit to Thailand, last month

the weather in Florida was 4.4 C this morning, with an average this week of 21C daytime

no air pollution,

no grime in the nostrils

no motorbikes on the sidwalk,

no street peddlars taking up the sidewalks

the people who claim the US is out of reach financially, are speaking only of city centers and coasts

yes, Thailand is much cheaper,

but it is only a nice place to visit,

living there, is a continuos compromise of health and mental well being, in between the moments of enjoyment

I can ride to the ocean here, and see all the pretty young females, all seeking men,

the difference is the cost,

which, regarding alcohol, is no different that Thailand,

the girls?

well, that is always a question of price, isn't it

they all want to get married here too,

and many of them have kids too,

what makes them different than the Thai girls?

their figures are different, as Thai girls are much smaller

people claiming the US is out of reach, have never strived to be more than what they are

You sound a lot like a guy that used to post non-stop on TV, named Scarpolo. The guy was posting day and night, talking about how great his life was back in Florida and bashing on Thailand. Sound familiar? But it's clear the guy could not get Thailand out of his system.

Which leads me to a slight variation of the BG saying that applies to you and a few of the guys here: "You can get the farang out of Thailand, but you cannot get Thailand out of the farang."

[daveAustin]

I am here 2 years now and I have decided I will not renew my retirement visa next year.

I miss:

beautiful national parks in the US

beautiful coastlines that are not full of litter

forests that actually have abundant wildlife

fresh seafood in the Pacific Northwest

sea kayaking in the PNW being able to buy a real sea kayak, custom fitted to me

the best tasting beer in the world

the best mountain biking in the world

Yes, you have many things in the US, including great scenery, but as well travelled as I am I can tell you the US does not have the best tasting beer in the world. Gawd, you wouldn't even make the top 50. Maybe for you, but then you guys are not big on culture and tastes. Bit of a toss up, but NZ is right up there for mountain biking. Enjoyed the US but could never live there. Cities are too big, crowded and unsafe (ALWAYS need a car), everyone seems uptight and things are just, well, a bit weird in general. I would have to make regular forays up into Canada for a bit of normalcy.

[NeverSure]

I am here 2 years now and I have decided I will not renew my retirement visa next year.

I miss:

beautiful national parks in the US

beautiful coastlines that are not full of litter

forests that actually have abundant wildlife

fresh seafood in the Pacific Northwest

sea kayaking in the PNW being able to buy a real sea kayak, custom fitted to me

the best tasting beer in the world

the best mountain biking in the world

Yes, you have many things in the US, including great scenery, but as well travelled as I am I can tell you the US does not have the best tasting beer in the world. Gawd, you wouldn't even make the top 50. Maybe for you, but then you guys are not big on culture and tastes. Bit of a toss up, but NZ is right up there for mountain biking. Enjoyed the US but could never live there. Cities are too big, crowded and unsafe (ALWAYS need a car), everyone seems uptight and things are just, well, a bit weird in general. I would have to make regular forays up into Canada for a bit of normalcy.

Notice that not once did he mention anything close to a big city. I'm with you. I don't like big cities.

The US is huge and trying to describe it is impossible. There are too many areas, climates, sceneries, cultures, local foods, and yes, rural vs populated areas.

Beer? Matter of taste. I don't like the major US brands either but microbreweries are very popular and there are a couple locals that I really like. Also it's legal to make your own beer and some guys are really good at making what they prefer. (I don't drink much anyway.)

Next time stay away from cities and enjoy the wide open spaces. There's a lot more of that than there are cities.

Cheers.

[jdinasia]

We have considered a 2 year shift to the US. My husband will have no problem getting a green card for work and would pursue another degree.

He has seen the issues that come with being an expat and is giving it the consideration it is due.

I rather expect that we will start spending time there on buying trips for the new business and remain in Thailand at least 9 months of each year.

We don't really think about what we spend on a monthly basis. We buy and do whatever we want using only what we earn in Thailand with money left over monthly to add to savings or invest.

My clear preference is to be based in Thailand but that doesn't mean I would be unwilling to make a shift

[chris2004]

Lasted seven years, came back last fall.

Cost of living is cheaper here, better quality of life, and:

People smile without hoping for anything other than a smile back;

Haven't heard a single dog bark in three months, let alone been attacked by a pack of them;

No burning of plastic;

No loud music, caterwauling as the moon sets, or unbridled exhaust;

Haven't seen one person pick their nose. Nope, not even the person preparing my food ...

Were there good things about my time in Thailand? Sure, but no where near enough to consider living there any longer, let alone dying there.

My wife is joining me in April. We have a bucket list in the first month that includes:

The Grand Canyon- camping and rafting;

Las Vegas- attending a Cirque de Sol show, and, in the casinos, losing money;

Driving north from San Diego through Malibu, sailing to and about Catalina, then taking Hwy 1 up the coast into Washington State and eventually Victoria, B.C. We'll stop at wineries and cheese farms along the way, detouring for camping in Sequoia National Park, and Redwood National Forest. Then Yosemite and back over to the coast ….

Absolutely no way I would consider wasting another precious day of life in LOS.

You are lucky in the USA you have a cheap cost of living and a big country to live in and explore. What do we have in the UK? a Muslim hellhole, taxed to death by socialists. No thanks i'm staying here.

[VIPinthailand]

Europe or USA are the same shit hole if you want my point of view.

In one hand, the USA is filled with rednecks and Cowboys who can not maintain a conversation without some "cool" and "sucks" in every sentence when they open their mouth.

and In the other hand you have the European guys who are more intelligent but still stuck in a old European system where discrimination(age, race, religion....) still reigns.

if you want proves, just look at their debts. do you want live In a system that screw its citizen.

I am talking about people who have been nowhere in their little boring life. people who have traveled are not too dumb as they got some life experience. so no offence to you, US guys.

Edited February 21, 2015 by VIPinthailand

[manarak]

problem in the USA it s very hard to make any friend. here it s much easier. European and Thai are much more friendly than the USA guys. In USA you get a "hi" and nothing else.

the guys who set the Boston bomb said they have no US friends.

This is don't understand. Most of my best friends in the USA I have since about 1970 or before. My best friend has been a friend since before we attended school. His dad was our family doctor and he is a retired heart surgeon.

I won't make friends hanging in bars or shopping malls. To make new friends I'd have to join some civic clubs etc. and be around people I have something in common with.

I don't judge any Western nationality by what I see in Thailand. I don't believe that expats are necessarily representative of the country they came from as a whole.

probably you friend is from Europe. most guys born in the USA are obnoxious and real first degree minded. (their jokes are about sex mainly and most US guys insult women)

they will just invite you to see the super ball and eat turkey while watching dumb TV with guys chasing a ball that is not even oval.

their conversation is just gossiping as they have been nowhere except a trip or two to Las Vegas.

(so they can say they have been to Paris and Venice)

believe me, I know the USA, it' s just a terrible country filled with zombies, Wal Marts , churches and fast foods at every corner.

don't talk to them about Thailand, they all think it's a town in Mexico.

back to USA? no thanks!

What dumb post.

Reads like anything you could write about any country that is not the USA... He put about the same level of bad faith in it 555 ;-)

[HeijoshinCool]

Europe or USA are the same shit hole if you want my point of view.

In one hand, the USA is filled with rednecks and Cowboys who can not maintain a conversation without some "cool" and "sucks" in every sentence when they open their mouth.

and In the other hand you have the European guys who are more intelligent but still stuck in a old European system where discrimination(age, race, religion....) still reigns.

if you want proves, just look at their debts. do you want live In a system that screw its citizen.

I am talking about people who have been nowhere in their little boring life. people who have traveled are not too dumb as they got some life experience. so no offence to you, US guys.

.

After reading your posts, I know what the "I" stands for, and it ain't "Important."

[VIPinthailand]

problem in the USA it s very hard to make any friend. here it s much easier. European and Thai are much more friendly than the USA guys. In USA you get a "hi" and nothing else.

the guys who set the Boston bomb said they have no US friends.

This is don't understand. Most of my best friends in the USA I have since about 1970 or before. My best friend has been a friend since before we attended school. His dad was our family doctor and he is a retired heart surgeon.

I won't make friends hanging in bars or shopping malls. To make new friends I'd have to join some civic clubs etc. and be around people I have something in common with.

I don't judge any Western nationality by what I see in Thailand. I don't believe that expats are necessarily representative of the country they came from as a whole.

probably you friend is from Europe. most guys born in the USA are obnoxious and real first degree minded. (their jokes are about sex mainly and most US guys insult women)

they will just invite you to see the super ball and eat turkey while watching dumb TV with guys chasing a ball that is not even oval.

their conversation is just gossiping as they have been nowhere except a trip or two to Las Vegas.

(so they can say they have been to Paris and Venice)

believe me, I know the USA, it' s just a terrible country filled with zombies, Wal Marts , churches and fast foods at every corner.

don't talk to them about Thailand, they all think it's a town in Mexico.

back to USA? no thanks!

What dumb post.

Reads like anything you could write about any country that is not the USA... He put about the same level of bad faith in it 555 ;-)

Canada is a beautiful country.! and Mexican ladies are smarter than you. 5555

[SpokaneAl]

problem in the USA it s very hard to make any friend. here it s much easier. European and Thai are much more friendly than the USA guys. In USA you get a "hi" and nothing else.

the guys who set the Boston bomb said they have no US friends.

This is don't understand. Most of my best friends in the USA I have since about 1970 or before. My best friend has been a friend since before we attended school. His dad was our family doctor and he is a retired heart surgeon.

I won't make friends hanging in bars or shopping malls. To make new friends I'd have to join some civic clubs etc. and be around people I have something in common with.

I don't judge any Western nationality by what I see in Thailand. I don't believe that expats are necessarily representative of the country they came from as a whole.

probably you friend is from Europe. most guys born in the USA are obnoxious and real first degree minded. (their jokes are about sex mainly and most US guys insult women)

they will just invite you to see the super ball and eat turkey while watching dumb TV with guys chasing a ball that is not even oval.

"most guys born in the USA are obnoxious and real first degree minded. (their jokes are about sex mainly and most US guys insult women)"

Where do you come up with this stuff? It must be nice to paint all the men in a country with a single conclusion. But, then again, I suppose it beats having to work through real analysis.

their conversation is just gossiping as they have been nowhere except a trip or two to Las Vegas.

(so they can say they have been to Paris and Venice)

believe me, I know the USA, it' s just a terrible country filled with zombies, Wal Marts , churches and fast foods at every corner.

don't talk to them about Thailand, they all think it's a town in Mexico.

back to USA? no thanks!

What dumb post.

Reads like anything you could write about any country that is not the USA... He put about the same level of bad faith in it 555 ;-)

Canada is a beautiful country.! and Mexican ladies are smarter than you. 5555

"most guys born in the USA are obnoxious and real first degree minded. (their jokes are about sex mainly and most US guys insult women)"

Where do you come up with this stuff? I do admire your certainty in painting the entire male population of a large country with a single brush.

Edited February 22, 2015 by SpokaneAl

[ScarpoFongness4U]

Sweet Jesus

I don't know what USA people are talking about half the time, unless its the CNN version

And yes, you can not get Thailand out of the farang

The Thai people, in my opinion are simply nice and good hearted, mostly

I have not broken off any friendship there and don't think I should

[Smurkster]

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Lasted seven years, came back last fall.

Cost of living is cheaper here, better quality of life, and:

People smile without hoping for anything other than a smile back;

Haven't heard a single dog bark in three months, let alone been attacked by a pack of them;

No burning of plastic;

No loud music, caterwauling as the moon sets, or unbridled exhaust;

Haven't seen one person pick their nose. Nope, not even the person preparing my food ...

Were there good things about my time in Thailand? Sure, but no where near enough to consider living there any longer, let alone dying there.

My wife is joining me in April. We have a bucket list in the first month that includes:

The Grand Canyon- camping and rafting;

Las Vegas- attending a Cirque de Sol show, and, in the casinos, losing money;

Driving north from San Diego through Malibu, sailing to and about Catalina, then taking Hwy 1 up the coast into Washington State and eventually Victoria, B.C. We'll stop at wineries and cheese farms along the way, detouring for camping in Sequoia National Park, and Redwood National Forest. Then Yosemite and back over to the coast ….

Absolutely no way I would consider wasting another precious day of life in LOS.

I couldn't have said it better. Good choice for trips. I have a system for beating the casinos in Lost Wages. Don't gamble, just take advantage of their cheap restaurants and buffets.

On the looong drive up 101 along the Pacific Coast it gets tempting to cut over to Interstate 5 to get really "rolling," but I wouldn't do it. I'd keep going right on up through the Olympic Rain Forest all the way to Port Angeles and catch a ferry to Victoria, Canada.

But that's just me...

there really are some amazing sights to be seen in North America (canada/USA)

[ThaiPauly]

I treat everyday like it is the end.

It's TODAY buddy

No seriously, good for you

[mania]

I never "get" these types of topics...I especially never get the

20 or more pages that will surely follow with all the opinions.

First off why do folks post I am leaving X country

Who cares? I do not mean that in a bad way but really who cares?

Especially to post them on a forum dedicated to living traveling in X country why does one feel the need

to post they are leaving X country? Who cares....I am sure you have your reasons

But what makes me shake my head most is the 20 pages that always follows about why the new or returning to the old country is better than X country

It is a silly circular argument. Not all folks are the same...Life is more than what it costs to live somewhere. Not everyone eats the same foods or needs to speak the same language.

Otherwise.... I mean it is Sunday no need to ask about restaurants we must all be eating chicken right?

Everyone is different, everyone has different requirements & definitions of what is comfortable to them. Comfortable in the ways of

perceived freedoms, foods, people,scenery. What some need others do not. What some want others do not.

Folks on this forum who are leaving always have to make a statement & belittle the place they are leaving with snide remarks

Remarks like those that are here are only here for one reason or are happy with less, pollution,ripoffs etc etc etc....as if any country in the world does not have its warts

Really I wish you all well where ever you decide to live. But not everyone wants to live in the same place.

Those that live in the place you now seem to hate for ever having visited do not need to hear your excuse/reason of why your now leaving. It is not a failure for you to leave.....

Go........Be Happy where ever you can find happiness.

[kannot]

Lasted seven years, came back last fall.

Cost of living is cheaper here,

Huh????

.

Please don't edit my posts. Forum rules require you quote them in their entirety.

You know, this particular misperception is an ongoing argument on TV. And it is usually made by people with mediocre job histories, and/or a miserable existence in their homeland, making retiring to Asia and "enjoying" forty baht meals out, 150 baht massages, and 1000 baht "girlfriends," a good deal.

All the foods I like are available here at no up charge. In Thailand they carry a 300% up charge---even before Villa or Foodland grab their own take.

On Friday, I bought a very nice Chilean Malbec, on sale, for $4.19. That's 125 baht. IN LOS, the same wine was close to 700 baht. I bought an excellent cheese on special, thick smoked bacon for a dollar a pound, and a steelhead trout filet for $4 (fresh, not farmed). That's far less than what I paid at Villa.

My gym does not require a membership, and so has no pesky salesman. It has a flat rate of $15 per month. I, like all members, have a key, making it available 24/7.

When I use UPS or FedEx here, they are reliable and reasonable. Nothing gets stolen, or nailed for extra fees.

When I pay a serviceman here to do work on my vehicle, or my lawnmower, or my plumbing or electric, it is almost always done expeditiously, safely and right, the first time. This, as opposed to going through a series of workers who not only don't get it right, but often make a problem worse.

In LOS, I never had my '65 Honda motorbike running correctly, because the mechanics were incompetent or dishonest. Or both. This increases a tradesman's "bargain" rates considerably, making them no longer a bargain.

One time when I went to pick up my bike after some work, I noticed the original Honda seat was replaced by junk, and my seat was on the bike of the mechanic's buddy. When I pointed this out, they did this: . When I insisted they put it back on my bike, they became confrontational. I had to pay a cop to get my seat back. I don't think I have never had that experience at a Honda bike shop in the USA.

I bought a new gas BBQ last week at Home Depot. Regular cost was $99. On sale for $69. What's a gas BBQ in Thailand? I know the answer: about 10,000 baht for junk. The price goes up from there. The dumbbells I bought in LOS? One there cost as much as six here.

If I buy something at most stores here, there is a no-questions-asked return policy. I have returned to the local Smith's Supermarket, a number of items I found unsatisfactory. Always a smile when handing back my money. As such, I am a loyal customer. In November after returning to the States, I was checking out some groceries, and the bill was fifty-some dollars. I jokingly asked the checker if he had any coupons. He reached in his apron pocket, and swiped one across the scanner, and my bill dropped to $32. This is now a regular occurrence.

Gas where I live is almost half the price it is in Thailand. It is lower in other states.

In Thailand used vehicles carry a ridiculous price. Last week, I bought a '66 Chevy Bel Air. It had sat in an old lady's garage for years, and has 38,000 original miles. I paid $3700 for it. Now I have my eye on a '65, fully restored Chev pickup. $7000. Far less than a used pickup in average condition in Thailand. Both are investments that will never lose me money.

The Asian market I shop in Salt Lake City, actually has lower prices than back at Rhek Thum's "fresh market." And they are the same brands.

Here the tennis courts are free, and in good condition.

Here, cops don't stop me when I'm driving legally, unlike Thailand where they attempt to extort money. And here, Avis doesn't even think of extorting me for a pre-existing scratch, when I return a rental to the airport, just because I speak English.

My dentist here does not try to drill out non-existent cavities, nor pull a cracked tooth that can be repaired (if you have good training), nor spends a mere 15 minutes "cleaning" my teeth. Here it takes a solid hour,and is done right, so I only have to go twice a year rather than every couple of months.

This summer I'm out to buy a piece of land and build a vacation home. It's mine when I'm done, though my wife's name will also be on it. And where we are building, land is cheaper per acre than the rubber tree land where I lived in Rhek Thum. Don't believe me? Do your due diligence and research it, and you'll find my claim holds water.

Most of the nutritional products I take that keep me free of those expensive American doctor bills, are not available in Thailand. The few that are, are substantially lower in price here than in LOS. After feeling like crap the past few years, I am once again healthy and have my vitality back. That has great economic value.

The firearms I buy to go hunting and target shooting are at the very least, 1/3 the price they are in Thailand. The books I read are cheaper when new at the store, and a once-read paperback bought at a garage sale is 10 baht.

The tools I will use to build my house, Makita, Ryobi, and Milwaukee, are much less expensive here in the States. And if they break, the warranty work is done locally and in days. Usually they just hand over a new tool. The building material selection is far more diverse here, enabling both short-term and long-term savings.

Are there exceptions? Are there things cheaper in LOS?

Sure. Instant water heaters, air conditioners, unhygienic meals out, short-time"girlfriends," and massages. There are others, such as contact lenses, but as a whole do not measure up to a genuine savings.

Many items may be cheaper, but are built so cheaply they have a crap service life. Water pumps, clothing, and electrical items are a good example. Speaking of clothing, I bought new Levis last month. On sale, plus a coupon, $22 a pair. Good luck with that in LOS.

Want to retire to a warm climate that has reasonable prices? Try Port Charlotte, Florida. Check out the land and housing prices, and all the free services and discounts for seniors. Thailand does not even come close.

Good post Hc I agree, the problem for me is I'm English and things there are waaaaaaaay more expensive there, so whilst America wins the Uk does not, combine it with the Uk's abysmal weather and Thailand wins.

I still dont like the culture or people much though in Thailand, too lazy selfish etc for "my" liking.

[HeijoshinCool]

I never "get" these types of topics...I especially never get the

20 or more pages that will surely follow with all the opinions.

First off why do folks post I am leaving X country

Who cares? I do not mean that in a bad way but really who cares?

Especially to post them on a forum dedicated to living traveling in X country why does one feel the need

to post they are leaving X country? Who cares....I am sure you have your reasons

But what makes me shake my head most is the 20 pages that always follows about why the new or returning to the old country is better than X country

It is a silly circular argument. Not all folks are the same...Life is more than what it costs to live somewhere. Not everyone eats the same foods or needs to speak the same language.

Otherwise.... I mean it is Sunday no need to ask about restaurants we must all be eating chicken right?

Everyone is different, everyone has different requirements & definitions of what is comfortable to them. Comfortable in the ways of

perceived freedoms, foods, people,scenery. What some need others do not. What some want others do not.

Folks on this forum who are leaving always have to make a statement & belittle the place they are leaving with snide remarks

Remarks like those that are here are only here for one reason or are happy with less, pollution,ripoffs etc etc etc....as if any country in the world does not have its warts

Really I wish you all well where ever you decide to live. But not everyone wants to live in the same place.

Those that live in the place you now seem to hate for ever having visited do not need to hear your excuse/reason of why your now leaving. It is not a failure for you to leave.....

Go........Be Happy where ever you can find happiness.

.

Really I wish you all well where ever you decide to live. But not everyone wants to live in the same place.

You're exactly right, and no one was saying otherwise until the 8th or 9th page, when the apologists showed up and started name-calling, misquoting, flinging aspersions, and making light of tragedies in other member's lives.

[sir charles IV]

Ahhhh yap yap. Can't stand the heat get out of the kitchen. You should never have left usa. Some people don't got what it takes to live adventurously. It's all about dollars and cents for u buddy. Coupons discounts penny pinching ? Warning warning thai women get bored too quickly!!!!!

[daveAustin]

I never "get" these types of topics...I especially never get the

20 or more pages that will surely follow with all the opinions.

First off why do folks post I am leaving X country

Who cares? I do not mean that in a bad way but really who cares?

Especially to post them on a forum dedicated to living traveling in X country why does one feel the need

to post they are leaving X country? Who cares....I am sure you have your reasons

But what makes me shake my head most is the 20 pages that always follows about why the new or returning to the old country is better than X country

It is a silly circular argument. Not all folks are the same...Life is more than what it costs to live somewhere. Not everyone eats the same foods or needs to speak the same language.

Otherwise.... I mean it is Sunday no need to ask about restaurants we must all be eating chicken right?

Everyone is different, everyone has different requirements & definitions of what is comfortable to them. Comfortable in the ways of

perceived freedoms, foods, people,scenery. What some need others do not. What some want others do not.

Folks on this forum who are leaving always have to make a statement & belittle the place they are leaving with snide remarks

Remarks like those that are here are only here for one reason or are happy with less, pollution,ripoffs etc etc etc....as if any country in the world does not have its warts

Really I wish you all well where ever you decide to live. But not everyone wants to live in the same place.

Those that live in the place you now seem to hate for ever having visited do not need to hear your excuse/reason of why your now leaving. It is not a failure for you to leave.....

Go........Be Happy where ever you can find happiness.

Then why would you even read and spend the time replying to it? Just pass it up, no biggie.

[richardathuahin]

I never "get" these types of topics...I especially never get the

20 or more pages that will surely follow with all the opinions.

First off why do folks post I am leaving X country

Who cares? I do not mean that in a bad way but really who cares?

Especially to post them on a forum dedicated to living traveling in X country why does one feel the need

to post they are leaving X country? Who cares....I am sure you have your reasons

But what makes me shake my head most is the 20 pages that always follows about why the new or returning to the old country is better than X country

It is a silly circular argument. Not all folks are the same...Life is more than what it costs to live somewhere. Not everyone eats the same foods or needs to speak the same language.

Otherwise.... I mean it is Sunday no need to ask about restaurants we must all be eating chicken right?

Everyone is different, everyone has different requirements & definitions of what is comfortable to them. Comfortable in the ways of

perceived freedoms, foods, people,scenery. What some need others do not. What some want others do not.

Folks on this forum who are leaving always have to make a statement & belittle the place they are leaving with snide remarks

Remarks like those that are here are only here for one reason or are happy with less, pollution,ripoffs etc etc etc....as if any country in the world does not have its warts

Really I wish you all well where ever you decide to live. But not everyone wants to live in the same place.

Those that live in the place you now seem to hate for ever having visited do not need to hear your excuse/reason of why your now leaving. It is not a failure for you to leave.....

Go........Be Happy where ever you can find happiness.

EXACTLY..................If you don't like it, don't winge about it, don't compare with where you come from. Just quietly pack your bags and p1ss off somewhere else. We don't care. Why should we?

Unfortunately YANKs like a really good ale, don't travel well. They arrive flat and somewhat sour. Best off staying in their local enclave as they are not ready to face the big bad world. Still need more maturing IMO

[NanLaew]

Absolutely no way I would consider wasting another precious day of life in LOS.

But you sure do spend a lot of time on "Thai"Visa. Must be something about the LOS that keeps you coming back.

.

Didn't say I didn't enjoy time, now and again, in Thailand, I do. And it's my wife and mutts that keep me coming back.

But I was replying to the ongoing TV contention that living in Thailand is cheaper, not that LOS wasn't worth living in.

As for my time on TV ... perhaps an hour a week. I multi-task on the computer and write fast. When my wife and mutt come to the States in April, no doubt that time will decrease, and sadly, Berkshire, you will then lose the benefits of my wisdom and wit.

But maybe not. Gotta have some brainless entertainment, and I don't own a real TV.

How does your comment "Absolutely no way I would consider wasting another precious day of life in LOS." have anything remotely to do with the perpetual cost of living debate?

Just another painful 'toys out of the pram' diatribe IMHO... particularly your second, long-arsed and really whining post. I mean how many times a year are you going to cruise the Pacific Highway, all the way to Canada before you get bored shitless?

You are leaving. You are happy. We are happy for you. Enough said.

[HeijoshinCool]

The Op was about whether or not you would die in Thailand. It evolved.

Why do you people have such an enormous problem with an open discussion? If you don't like our comments, you are certainly free to ignore them. If you love it in Thailand, feel free to express such, without fear we who no longer live there will attack you for your opinions.