Do this before Retiring in SE Asia

[@VagabondAwake]

Links promised in the above video are here: vagabondbuddha.com/do-this-before-retiring-in-se-asia/ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗘-𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞→ 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗕𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗽 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱𝘄𝗶𝗱𝗲☆★☆ vagabondbuddha.com/ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗥oad Map to Freedom Overseas (Retire Overseas Course)☆★☆ vagabondbuddha.com/courses/the-retire-overseas-course/ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲 $$$ 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝗯𝗯𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀e vagabondbuddha.com/courses/the-hobby-income-course/ What kinds of risks are you taking if you move overseas? vagabondbuddha.com/our-liability-disclaimer-the-risk-is-on-you/

[@koufax174]

Ever since I heard your first video I followed your path and ignored those who went to a single country and landed there. I’ve been on two extended exploratory in SE Asia of 7 countries. It’s fascinating. I never understood landing in one place and being frustrated with the lifestyle without checking other countries first. I’m so excited I’m going to slow travel beginning in 5 weeks and have prepared things at home so I don’t have to go back. I can if I want. I’m too enchanted by the cultures, lifestyles, traditions and people in SE Asia to go back to the predictable life at home. Thank you Dan for your lead. 🙏🏼

[@VagabondAwake]

Hello @koufax174, thank you for your personal note of encouragement. It really does make a difference for us when we know people appreciate what we are doing. Your comments also cause KZbin to show our video to more people so your note is like paying us a small tip $$ for our time. Thank you, Dan

[@koufax174]

@@VagabondAwake🙏🏼

[@Cockneyrebel]

HI @koufax174, What 7 countries did you pick? As want doing the same, but the problem i have is no1 I'm an asthmatic so will have to be careful with pollution, but what i think is the timing the countries with the rainy season & the burning seasons in each country so i can get the best dry weather with best air quality?

[@Kormac80]

Do you have an update these 8 months later? Thanks.

[@EricG7]

I thank the both of you for sharing your travel experiences with us ! This has been a gift to me , because in another year i am planning to do some travel to Asia. This is perfect and i appreciate you both tremendously for your expertise . Thank You

[@VagabondAwake]

Our pleasure!

[@FinancialFreedomLifestyle]

Good to know. Thank you for sharing. We get a lot of value from you guys.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you so much for making our dreams possible!

[@toddsmith59]

Dan and Qiang, I just subscribed to your channel after watching this episode (I also viewed 2 other episodes that I really liked too). You are providing the best practical content I have found on travel. As someone who is preparing to travel to Southeast Asia next month, I’m trying to get as much useful information as possible. Most of the content published on KZbin is about personal experiences, which is like watching a video diary of that “travelers” life. The content creators seldom provide “useful” information that I need to assist me in preparing for “my” experience. I appreciate the time that you are devoting to assist other “travelers”, like me, who are intent on participating in the experience as opposed to just watching it. Thank you Dan and Qiang 🫶

[@VagabondAwake]

Hello @toddsmith1793, thank you for your personal note of encouragement. It really does make a difference for us when we know people appreciate what we are doing. Your comments also cause KZbin to show our video to more people so your note is like paying us a small tip $$ for our time. Thank you, Dan

[@gozitan5]

Thanks...true opening words of wisdom 👍🏼

[@josephlievois8543]

Your easy, pedestrian, sincere manner has really grown on me over these last years. Thanks very much for your efforts and I wish you continued happiness in your travels.

[@VagabondAwake]

I appreciate that. I just do me and try to stay away from whatever is the new way to get attention online. :-) My goal is to reduce your pain of living like me.

[@user-retsailor]

Another amazing video ! Great information. Another video to watch a few times...

[@iwishluckybugger7623]

Subscribed as I'm looking to retire somewhere over that way in the next couple of years. I've been to all of the countries listed as I lived in China for a decade and it was cheap to fly all around SE Asia from Guangzhou where I was based. I am biased towards the Philippines, and also, Palawan.

[@James-s8n6w]

Just subscribed, greetings! Love your videos. The recommendations and the exploration that you share are really inspiring. I saw you while I was vacationing in Boracay Philippines… an amazing place. (September 8th through the 18th). I literally walked right past the two of you - I’m tall, medium brown skinned with glasses. You were with... I think it was two or three guides. I couldn't believe it! I was on my way to The Two Brown Brothers Family Restaurant - great food by the way. It was adjacent to this restaurant where we crossed paths. Across the street from the pond/small lake. I wanted to say hi and ask for a photo with you, but I was concerned about making a faux pas and you both seemed so focused on your mission, I decided not to disturb you. It was such a wonderful surprise, seeing you both. Keep making videos . They’re illuminating!

[@VagabondAwake]

Very nice. Say hello next time. We promise not to bite. :-)

[@davidsiemer7578]

Good analogy and advice Dan. I will definitely take my time easing into retirement. Slow travel is the way to go 👍

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for watching @davidsiemer7578! Dan

[@mikestorm9578]

Been watching your videos for a long time.. this is super advice Dan! Love it. Wishing you and your sweetheart a great holiday season. Thanks for all the wonderful videos 😊

[@VagabondAwake]

Happy holidays!

[@kennethso6811]

You have 1000% more luck than most of us. You found a girl that isn’t out to feed on you. She actually is attracted to you. We all are not experiencing the same

[@VagabondAwake]

They out there. Don't give up hope. Just broaden your horizons, smile, and be friendly to everyone around you. Luck is important but it is not everything.

[@1bam1productions]

Great video. I just subscribed to your channel and I plan on paying more attention to all of your details here. Sounds like a great channel. Very informative

[@craigellis8354]

Thank you This video has inspired this retiree to take up the slow travel challenge I'm flying solo, I haven't landed on anyone to share this dating phase experience 😊 Good luck to you both Sincerely Craig

[@duncanmacleod7210]

I spent 2 years in VN and I've never heard anyone say "Da NONG" or "Na TRONG" but really like your channel.

[@MisterMeow-vt8kl]

The cost of living, the people, and Buddhism is why I consider going SE Asia.

[@wmistler7559]

you videos are great => informative and well presented

[@JeffKellyMedia]

You did it again. Just when I thought I learned everything possible from you..after watching for years. You drop new knowledge nuggets on my plate. Hungry for more, call me greedy.

[@VagabondAwake]

So nice of you

[@stevefroehlich]

Mountain hiking, as well as multi day treks within a couple of hours are important for me. Retiring somewhere for 1500 or less is preferable. I traveled in SE Asia decades ago and can live very frugally. Perhaps Borneo, Sri Lanka are top places? I also like a happening, upbeat and pretty place. I still want to visit the Philippines, Vietnam and Cambodia, probably Sumatra as well. Peru and Columbia sound nice and have the mountains. Please suggest top places that might fit. Thank you, and great channel!

[@VagabondAwake]

Hi @stevefroehlich, I do a report every year on the top 15 places in the entire world to retire cheap in paradise, Here is my most recent report and video on that topic: vagabondbuddha.com/best-places-to-retire-early-in-paradise-for-pennies-in-2024/ Subscribe so you will know when our update comes out. Thanks for watching and commenting, Dan

[@ThePhilippinePipeDream]

That sky scanner was a good tip, 500 bucks cheaper than what Expedia showed

[@VagabondAwake]

Happy to help. :-)

[@367scotty]

funny Id say get out of bangkok as fast as you can. Koh chang, samui, and possibly Krabi. I haven been up north. Great vids and information.

[@VagabondAwake]

We actually enjoy all of Thailand. It just depends on what we are in the mood for. :-)

[@kennethmcgurn3830]

You can get a 60-day tourist visa before travel to Thailand and then extend for 30 more at any Immigration office for $55, giving you 90 days before moving on.

[@lutzbassin9321]

Very nice vision: first learn to know before go to honeymoon. Like it! 🙂

[@frankellis9627]

Dan you still have the best travel channel on KZbin. Keep it up, bro 😎

[@VagabondAwake]

Hello @frankellis9627, It really does make a difference for us when we know people appreciate what we are doing. So thank you! Your comments also causes KZbin to show our video to more people so your note is like paying us a tip $$ for our time. Thank you, Dan

[@Jammer411]

WE WANT TIME STAMPS FROM NOW ON . THANK YOU❤❤

[@vgshwk]

Dan cheaper isn’t always better. If you have long layovers I would suggest getting a lounge pass card if you can or you might spend the money you saved on your layover. Another thing to consider is Kl airport by my experience takes less time to go through security and passport control than Bangkok suhvunabsrm airport. If you can fly into don muang airport in Bangkok it is much better. Also I will relate my recent experience. I flew a small air carrier from suhvumabrm to Phnom Penh. This air carrier did not have online check in so I had to do it at the airport which took 30 minutes. After this it took another 45 minutes to get through security at passport control there must’ve been a thousand people and they weren’t full staffed. Landing in Phnom Penh it took another 30 minutes for them to bring out steps and bus us to the terminal. So sometimes the cheapest flight isn’t always better.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for sharing this experience. All worth considering. Luckily, that has never happened to me. Other annoying stuff has but that hasn't. Sorry to hear it.

[@FOCUSonASIA13]

Agree 100% Don Muang is much quicker and easier to go thru than SUHV. Just went through both recently and there is no comparison. Food court is better also!

[@vgshwk]

@@FOCUSonASIA13 the thing I wasn’t happy about at suhv there was probably a thousand people waiting to get stamped out and they weren’t fully staffed because they had two lanes that weren’t staffed.

[@FOCUSonASIA13]

about same issue for us about a week ago@@vgshwk

[@yuanshuan7099]

Just return my trip to Laos and Thailand. Now live in Hainan of china.

[@NapoleonDynamyte]

The best way to travel!!

[@TheCheckit96]

Great channel.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you!

[@felixagbessi6182]

I believe I will follow exactly your suggestion in 2014. Thank you Dan. 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@ccrider8483]

You must have a time machine. Can you send me to 2014 also?

[@warrpedd]

​@@ccrider8483Just borrow a DeLorean.

[@johnnychinges888]

Epic information Attitude of gratitude 🙏

[@frankiegee5260]

I want to move to the Philippines, specifically, south of Davao.

[@VagabondAwake]

What town are you thinking?

[@charlesjosephdiputado804]

Davao city, Davao del Sur(Southern Davao)is the only right place...

[@molonlabe9602]

The biggest mistake that people make with retiring to South East Asia is...they think that they will feel the same living in a place as they did when visiting a place. Residing and vacationing are two VERY different things. The second biggest mistake is trying to judge everything according to where you lived and the culture within you grew up. Foreign places are not bad/good...they are different. If the differences are too much for you to accept without criticism, move on... it's OK to move on, it's better to move on. Find the acceptable place.

[@VagabondAwake]

Wise.

[@CosmicSeeker69]

IF only more ppl understood that...... I was reading a post from a guy the other day: 12 days to look around Cambodia to see if he wanted to retire there....................

[@felixagbessi6182]

I believe I will follow exactly your suggestion. Thank you Dan. 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@iliegiurgiu8140]

Thanks Dan again , your great informations in every single video are very helpful for everybody to make decisions , the art of happiness in small things is the best , stay away from depressing news of media brain washing every single minute , all the best !

[@VagabondAwake]

My pleasure! Well said. Letting the rumor of the day rule your thoughts is the kiss of death.

[@WyattMullin]

Great video Dan. We'll be visiting a few of these countries early next year. Great advice for slow travel.

[@VagabondAwake]

Have fun!

[@franklinhall7258]

This video gave me valuable information to save ME money when I am ready to travel. I hope to travel in January 2024.

[@VagabondAwake]

Glad it was helpful!

[@MichaelSmittySmithScottsdaleAz]

Dan great video. Do you get taxed on your channel income in the USA or is your channel based in another country? Thx

[@VagabondAwake]

Americans must pay taxes on their worldwide personal income. I have no foreign entities established so far. But it is something I would consider if my accountant suggested it.

[@mikejarvis6138]

Very good advice.!!

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for watching!

[@derrickdu]

Dan, not sure if you heard and if you are taking Social Security yet, but the US Government is going to increase COLA next year. That would be a big bonus to those living overseas. Great topic once again. Thanks

[@VagabondAwake]

I just read that. Thanks for sharing. :-)

[@jumpinjehoshaphat1951]

Annual COLA increases have been automatic since 1975.

[@FOCUSonASIA13]

3.2% is what I am hearing, not huge but every penny counts in retirement. Those of us on Govt pension also will get same increase

[@GarrettSAlston]

Great info and information, Dan and Qiang. I would have done this and it would be a dream of mine prior to having serious medical things( 3 strokes and 5 heart attacks suffered in South Florida-2017-2018, did not stop me or my now filipina fiancee2wife Charlie, here with me now in the Philippines 🇵🇭 from writing and publishing our first book about my ordeal, though )to me and becoming very disabled, unfortunately! Hopefully with time and other factors I can recover and do this as recommend!?? For those who can, please do it while you can, trust me!! Happy holidays and new year to all!! All be blessed, safe, healthy, happy, aware, smart, prosperous and great ( compassionate). Much love to all!! Yes, si, chai( Thai), dung( Vietnamese), ja, oui, Oo ( tagalog filipino for Yes)!! Thurl G ( one of my many nicknames) ghost, roger out, peace and Adios!!

[@VagabondAwake]

Great point. Thanks for sharing. :-)

[@GarrettSAlston]

Thanks, gracias, grazie, danke, merci, Salamat po ( tagalog filipino for thanks),for the love!! You guys be safe and travel safe, just put together a rolling clothes rack for Charlie and it took time, patience and process still with a faulty left hand and left side body!! My streak of daily exercise continues from 2018 until now, I do not have "give up DNA" in my mind or body!! Happy holidays and New year's to you, your friends and families!! Trudat! Real talk&Nuff Said!!

[@chaddavis6230]

Thank you, Dan! This is great information.

[@VagabondAwake]

You are welcome!

[@qlddrones]

Did any of the countries you visited show any concern about your one way tickets? We are often asked for details of our return or onward flights when travelling in Asia. Not sure what happens if you don't have one booked.

[@qlddrones]

I didn't watch long enough ... so my next question is... do you have to buy an onward "booking" each time you move on to another country?

[@VagabondAwake]

Great question @qlddrones, As you have probably heard we almost never buy round-trip tickets. We move forward slowly traveling the world. But some countries require a return ticket or onward flight before they allow entry. But the rules change all the time so don't assume what I am about to tell you is true for any airline or country. You have to check every time. But if they require a return ticket or onward flight, here is what we do. When you try to board your flight going to the country, with a one-way ticket, the airline will ask for proof of a return flight or an onward flight. We handle this in three possible ways. If you can find a refundable ticket a few hours before you board your flight, buy that, and cancel after you clear customs at your destination. If not, buy an onward flight from one of the online companies that offer onward flights. They cost about $12 USD. Just Google the words "Onward Flights" and a few will pop up. Basically they put your name on a flight leaving the country on whatever date you say and they email you a confirmation that you can show to prove you have an onward flight. But if you decide to buy the $12 onward flight, show up at the airport 3 hours early. We had one refused by the airline only once in the last 5 years. So that brings up the third way. When your $12 onward flight is refused, step out of line, and log on with your computer or smartphone and buy the cheapest flight you can find exiting the country. For example, we search online for the cheapest ticket to a nearby country, leaving that country. Then you lose much less money than you would if you bought a roundtrip ticket to your home country. Skyscanner is the best place to find cheap tickets in our experience. Some countries will also let you buy an onward train or bus ticket to another country which can be even cheaper. Use RometoRio.com to find those. Best, Dan

[@glenn9057]

great vid. can you explain to me "onward flights." i want to fly to the Philippines one way because im not sure when i want to return. what is onward flights?

[@VagabondAwake]

As you have probably heard we almost never buy round-trip tickets. We move forward slowly traveling the world. But some countries require a return ticket or onward flight before they allow entry. But the rules change all the time so don't assume what I am about to tell you is true for any airline or country. You have to check every time. But if they require a return ticket or onward flight, here is what we do. When you try to board your flight going to the country, with a one-way ticket, the airline will ask for proof of a return flight or an onward flight. We handle this in three possible ways. If you can find a refundable ticket a few hours before you board your flight, buy that, and cancel after you clear customs at your destination. If not, buy an onward flight from one of the online companies that offer onward flights. They cost about $12 USD. Just Google the words "Onward Flights" and a few will pop up. Basically they put your name on a flight leaving the country on whatever date you say and they email you a confirmation that you can show to prove you have an onward flight. But if you decide to buy the $12 onward flight, show up at the airport 3 hours early. We had one refused by the airline only once in the last 5 years. So that brings up the third way. When your $12 onward flight is refused, step out of line, and log on with your computer or smartphone and buy the cheapest flight you can find exiting the country. For example, we search online for the cheapest ticket to a nearby country, leaving that country. Then you lose much less money than you would if you bought a roundtrip ticket to your home country. Skyscanner is the best place to find cheap tickets in our experience. Some countries will also let you buy an onward train or bus ticket to another country which can be even cheaper. Use RometoRio.com to find those. Best, Dan

[@sagora3114]

Thanks Dan)

[@VagabondAwake]

You are welcome @sagora3114. Your comment grows our channel. :-) Dan

[@geejay1123]

Slow travel is looking more and more attractive.

[@VagabondAwake]

We love it. :-)

[@sdleasia]

This is my plan when I get to the Philippines next year.

[@2Rugrats9597]

I really like this video! Love the way you put things that definitely resonated w me.

[@VagabondAwake]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@gobfranklin6759]

Thanks Dan!

[@dennisgonya4500]

Sound advice. I heard the word Motorola that changed my life in Malaysia. 1996

[@darkroast66]

Always good advice. Thanks!

[@johnseddon7793]

Not sure if you have included medical insurance in your costs but they could be expensive the older you get. 🙏

[@VagabondAwake]

Here is my video on medical insurance: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zp3Id5J4eLGJgdk

[@davidbousfield4506]

Sr Lanka is my top pick . Cheapest and sweet Buddhist folks and lots of waves not found in your countries. India is n\by far the cheapest .

[@vlogcritter]

Damn good video and very helpful

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for watching @vlogcritter! We loved it. Dan

[@TheyCalledMeT]

gosh i would love to slow travel SE A .. but talking about months is impossible for a working person :(

[@VagabondAwake]

I ended up starting an online business

[@Man-In-The-Home-Stretch]

Other than the tourist visa being relatively simple and generous in the PI, is there any compelling reason NOT to seek their retirement visa?

[@VagabondAwake]

They want you to put several thousand in the local banks and then you have to start reporting that to the US government every year possibly.

[@yohanceamir224]

Good stuff

[@VagabondAwake]

Glad you enjoyed

[@jaws2003]

For me i love Davao city, Philippines. If i choose southeast asia it would be there or indonesia. I love how close other countries are to travel to.

[@VagabondAwake]

We had a really nice time in Davao also. Thank for sharing.

[@Scottwang625]

Hi! How do you travel with a dog?

[@VagabondAwake]

Read airline requirements.

[@PeevyMctweevy]

If you are a Brit of pensionable age the first thing you need to know about retiring to a S.E. Asian country is this..Only in the Philippines will you receive your annual state pension increase, it is the only country that has a mutual agreement with the UK government. Lots of Brits don't realise this..

[@VagabondAwake]

Cool. Do you have a source where I can read this. Thanks, Dan

[@PeevyMctweevy]

@@VagabondAwake You can google it, you will see all the countries where a pension increase is paid and where they are not paid. There is a UK gov' website..

[@user-rl3iv2jk9q]

Thank you for your presentation .

[@VagabondAwake]

You are welcome!

[@LeslieBaldwin-k4u]

Rarely watch your vids nowadays,too long ads Dan

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for the feedback. How long is the ideal information video in your mind?

[@chriskunze7138]

Where are you a taxr esident?

[@VagabondAwake]

Usa

[@molonlabe9602]

@@VagabondAwake Americans are ALWAYS a tax resident of the USA, even if you live 20 years out of the country. There are limited amount income exclusion qualifications if you make income (interest income is not excludable) overseas, but you must always file taxes if you make annual income over the required tax filing threshold in order to take advantage of the income exclusion. There's also something called an FBAR. If you (American), at any time, have an overseas account or a group of overseas accounts (including the full value of any joint account) that reach $10,000 US then you must file an FBAR. This is true even if the account reached the threshold for only 1 minute, such as a transfer came in and you immediately withdrew. If you don't file and FBAR and get caught, the IRS may take half of your account balance as a fine.

[@patrickdesranleau184]

Hello Vagabond I like this video but the only problem that I see and I might be wrong but if I go as a tourist I need a return trip airplane ticket to get in the country (Philippines) for example. Please tell me if I am wrong Thank you in advance

[@VagabondAwake]

Great question @patrickdesranleau184, As you have probably heard we almost never buy round-trip tickets. We move forward slowly traveling the world. But some countries require a return ticket or onward flight before they allow entry. But the rules change all the time so don't assume what I am about to tell you is true for any airline or country. You have to check every time. But if they require a return ticket or onward flight, here is what we do. When you try to board your flight going to the country, with a one-way ticket, the airline will ask for proof of a return flight or an onward flight. We handle this in three possible ways. If you can find a refundable ticket a few hours before you board your flight, buy that, and cancel after you clear customs at your destination. If not, buy an onward flight from one of the online companies that offer onward flights. They cost about $12 USD. Just Google the words "Onward Flights" and a few will pop up. Basically they put your name on a flight leaving the country on whatever date you say and they email you a confirmation that you can show to prove you have an onward flight. But if you decide to buy the $12 onward flight, show up at the airport 3 hours early. We had one refused by the airline only once in the last 5 years. So that brings up the third way. When your $12 onward flight is refused, step out of line, and log on with your computer or smartphone and buy the cheapest flight you can find exiting the country. For example, we search online for the cheapest ticket to a nearby country, leaving that country. Then you lose much less money than you would if you bought a roundtrip ticket to your home country. Skyscanner is the best place to find cheap tickets in our experience. Some countries will also let you buy an onward train or bus ticket to another country which can be even cheaper. Use RometoRio.com to find those. Best, Dan

[@patrickdesranleau184]

@@VagabondAwake thank you so much great advice

[@caroljordan4316]

Thank you for this - Hubby and I are starting our slow travel in 2 years time and SE Asia is defs on the list for multiple reasons but also to balance out the cost of travelling to Europe. We have been to Thailand and Vietnam before but only short day trips on a cruise ship. What concerns me is the heat and humidity. Coming from Brisbane QLD I am kinda over the humidity 😂 is there any places (maybe an impossible want) in SE Asia that you think might be lower humidity/heat I have looked at Hanoi and Chang Mai as thought maybe they would be slightly better.

[@wavemaker2077]

@@caroljordan4316 Visit SEA from November to March. The temperature is cooler since it is winter time in the northern countries.

[@caroljordan4316]

@@wavemaker2077 thank you I’ll start investigating those months

[@singaporedan1597]

👍👍👍

[@keithprinn720]

plenty of airlines I wouldnt want to fly with sorry dont agree with just finding cheapest.

[@VagabondAwake]

That is okay. You be you. :-)

[@maxflight777]

Dream girl… 😀 That’s a story many of us experienced !

[@VagabondAwake]

So true.

[@edwardcorrigan4775]

While all this sounds good, I have a few issues to bring up on what you have discussed. 1st one is traveling from one country to another using 30 -90 days. This will be hard to get a real feel for the country when you could be visiting it during monsoon season. Seasons do change in Asia I would not want to judge a country during the worst time of year for that country. Not to mention that in some countries beyond the better seasons a lot of normal businesses actually shut down. (depending on the size of those towns and cities) 2sd point is the cheap flights out of the US a really cheap flight sounds good but the problem is with cheaper flights you may have to switch airlines in other countries that might mean long lay overs and having to go and get your bags and recheck and go through customs again or even short lay overs (1 hour or less ) with long lines almost making the switch over impossible through another customs. (I know because I have had to do this.) I do agree with visiting a lot of different countries to find the right fit for you. There's other things to consider as well such as the safety of any country a good place to look for this is with the Global Peace Index this will help when considering a country to settle for personal safety. Another factor for ex-pacts is the medical care as this does vary from country to country. When traveling these countries it also a good idea to learn a few phrases in the language of these countries. Although a country like the Philippines there really isn't a language barrier.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for your thoughts. If you are settling down somewhere I recommend visiting in high and low season. If you see only high season your thoughts might not be accurate. Our individual reports on each city cover these kinds of things. This video would be a few hours long if we put all of that into one video. Some great points though. Thanks for sharing. Dan

[@FOCUSonASIA13]

Great informative video Dan, I agree 1000%. People have that honeymoon phase when they travel to a place on vacation. It takes being there for at least a couple weeks living like a local to see how it really is. I recommend 30 days each location. For Thailand I think Hua Hin is a better option to explore than Pattaya. People that want to got to Pattaya usually already know what it is about. Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, and Bangkok are must visits as you mentioned. I personally love Bangkok for all that it has to offer but big cities are not for everyone. Always guaranteed some extra views when Qiang is in a bikini! LOL Safe travels guys!

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks JR. :-)

[@FOCUSonASIA13]

No worries my friend@@VagabondAwake

[@GlobalWorldNews1]

Good afternoon Dan- any videos on Taiwan ?

[@VagabondAwake]

Not yet! It is on the list to visit though.

[@kookiebush]

Dan, when you say "visa exemtion" for like thailand, do you still have to get an e visa? Im from usa. Thanks.

[@kookiebush]

The visa part is the most confusing. Is there a good website you use that shows good current visa info?

[@JamesBondEsq.]

@@kookiebush Google "entry requirements" for the country you want to go to. Problem solved!

[@VagabondAwake]

The truth is that the rules can change often without much notice. So I would do what James suggests Google "entry requirements" but I would also read that country's embassy requirements for citizens of your passport country. The rules can even be different based upon your passport, so make sure to read the rules for that country's embassy ... at their embassy in your home country.

[@keithgodfrey2023]

On ward flights help please

[@VagabondAwake]

Great question @keithgodfrey2023, As you have probably heard we almost never buy round-trip tickets. We move forward slowly traveling the world. But some countries require a return ticket or onward flight before they allow entry. But the rules change all the time so don't assume what I am about to tell you is true for any airline or country. You have to check every time. But if they require a return ticket or onward flight, here is what we do. When you try to board your flight going to the country, with a one-way ticket, the airline will ask for proof of a return flight or an onward flight. We handle this in three possible ways. If you can find a refundable ticket a few hours before you board your flight, buy that, and cancel after you clear customs at your destination. If not, buy an onward flight from one of the online companies that offer onward flights. They cost about $12 USD. Just Google the words "Onward Flights" and a few will pop up. Basically they put your name on a flight leaving the country on whatever date you say and they email you a confirmation that you can show to prove you have an onward flight. But if you decide to buy the $12 onward flight, show up at the airport 3 hours early. We had one refused by the airline only once in the last 5 years. So that brings up the third way. When your $12 onward flight is refused, step out of line, and log on with your computer or smartphone and buy the cheapest flight you can find exiting the country. For example, we search online for the cheapest ticket to a nearby country, leaving that country. Then you lose much less money than you would if you bought a roundtrip ticket to your home country. Skyscanner is the best place to find cheap tickets in our experience. Some countries will also let you buy an onward train or bus ticket to another country which can be even cheaper. Use RometoRio.com to find those. Best, Dan

[@durianwalker]

Value!

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you. ;-)

[@Nick2842]

Nice profile

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks 😅

[@Badger345]

Love your little dog Dan, dose he travel with you?

[@VagabondAwake]

That was a boat dog that we met on that tour called the Tao Experience in Philippines.

[@guambroker]

having a solid online business is #1 for me... strong wifi necessary. Bali is a special place.. get misty eyed just thinking of time there. Philippines is very suitable for westerners long-term, trips to other countries cheap and easy to visit.

[@francismartin2427]

Earthquake 7.6 Southern P.I.

[@VagabondAwake]

I just heard. So sad.

[@MakRan-fx1kb]

Over 60s can’t eat every dish & processed foods.. So during travel foods ( Low carb diet, keto, Mediterranean diet) .. is any traveller guide video .???

[@VagabondAwake]

No video on it but I go Keto all the time. You either cook at home or find a healthy restaurant with Keto dishes.

[@HemiChrysler]

what if I want to live in SE Asia, but I don't want to retire ?

[@VagabondAwake]

Funny. I never want to retire either. I like having purpose in my life. Helping people learn about living overseas is my purpose. :-)

[@waterbug1135]

Yes, SE Asia seemed super when I first started researching. Then slowly, yeah, could see the issues. The women are great, but they're still women. Still planning to move there, but my idea how I will live there has been changing. However, the concept of "try it before a permanent decision" I hear often and makes no sense to me. Permanent? It's not the Hotel California.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience.

[@wavemaker2077]

It seems that Dan is promoting the Tao Expedition in Palawan. All the clips in this video is from that expedition. The experience looks something that you will reminisce for a lifetime.

[@VagabondAwake]

I like to show pretty pictures when I talk. This video is from the Tao but nobody is paying us if you decide to take the Tao Experience. Thanks for watching. Dan

[@wavemaker2077]

@@VagabondAwake Hi Dan. I never said that you are paid to promote the Tao Expedition. I just said that you are promoting the Tao Expedition. From the clips that you are showing, it is indeed worth to join the expedition. Besides, there is nothing wrong even if you are paid to promote the Tao Expedition. You don't even need to defend it.

[@nunuvyurbiz123]

Everything looks perfect from far away (the postal service).

[@pandemicoftheunvaccinated5367]

I've had 10 se asia practice retirement trips. Still, don't think i'm ready yet.

[@darrylk808]

Qiang is from a wonderful country. Been to Malaysia many times and I would retire there (if my wife would come along). I tried to get her there this year and we spent 2 months total on 2 different trips.4 weeks in KL in Jan/Feb and a month moving around in May/June. She's still not convinced. The 2 weeks we spent in Kuching didn't help. We were there years ago and thought it was a nice place. Back then we did the Orangutan thing, the Iban village tour, etc. So we went back for 2 weeks in May...5 days in she's like "Shall we move on? I'm bored." 😂 I don't think you really get to know a place until you hit those bored days and get creative. We stayed the 2 weeks and spent time outside the city going to local shopping districts and malls. I then realized that I too was not impressed. Oh, well...🤣

[@VagabondAwake]

Perfect example.

[@smithbry2000]

This is like the poster of a beautiful woman with the caption "Somewhere in the world there's a guy who's fed up with her shit.".

[@VagabondAwake]

... and she is fed up with his. Life is life.

[@dennisgonya4500]

You know have a fantastic partner.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Dennis. :-)

[@fairworld2522]

What ever you do in asia, once you pick up Asian gf, make sure you do not reveal any of your assets or money you have to her. Ensure all wills are properly settled to your favorite next of kins. Trust me. Majority of them generally out to get your money and they will be waiting for however long it takes to secure them before remarrying another guy

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@BONA7902]

I WOULD JUST HIT IT AND QUIT IT. IT WORKS OUT BEST FOR EVERYONE.

[@VagabondAwake]

How does that relate to this video?

[@MsWindWaveSea]

Why is it only in Bali...there are other places in Indonesia

[@VagabondAwake]

Personally I would only line in Bali, but I highly recommend visiting all over the country for vacation. :-)

[@DamiAkawnt-d7w]

You may not be admitted to many SE Asian countries if you do not have a return ticket, and yes immigration very often do check. So poor advice right from the start.

[@VagabondAwake]

Great question @user-el9pr1te9j, As you have probably heard we almost never buy round-trip tickets. We move forward slowly traveling the world. But some countries require a return ticket or onward flight before they allow entry. But the rules change all the time so don't assume what I am about to tell you is true for any airline or country. You have to check every time. But if they require a return ticket or onward flight, here is what we do. When you try to board your flight going to the country, with a one-way ticket, the airline will ask for proof of a return flight or an onward flight. We handle this in three possible ways. If you can find a refundable ticket a few hours before you board your flight, buy that, and cancel after you clear customs at your destination. If not, buy an onward flight from one of the online companies that offer onward flights. They cost about $12 USD. Just Google the words "Onward Flights" and a few will pop up. Basically they put your name on a flight leaving the country on whatever date you say and they email you a confirmation that you can show to prove you have an onward flight. But if you decide to buy the $12 onward flight, show up at the airport 3 hours early. We had one refused by the airline only once in the last 5 years. So that brings up the third way. When your $12 onward flight is refused, step out of line, and log on with your computer or smartphone and buy the cheapest flight you can find exiting the country. For example, we search online for the cheapest ticket to a nearby country, leaving that country. Then you lose much less money than you would if you bought a roundtrip ticket to your home country. Skyscanner is the best place to find cheap tickets in our experience. Some countries will also let you buy an onward train or bus ticket to another country which can be even cheaper. Use RometoRio.com to find those. Best, Dan

[@vlogcritter]

It’s only 3.2%

[@VagabondAwake]

What is?

[@le_hardi6984]

Dan, you're making me dizzy.

[@VagabondAwake]

lol. Too fast? There is a written version, just click the first link below. :-)

[@bargainwallart653]

U not American unless you dubbed it.

[@VagabondAwake]

Please add a few words to this sentence so I know what it means. Thanks for the comment. :-)

[@allthecommonsense]

Sorry. All the up front blather that has no apparent relevance the video title made me bail out.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for trying.

[@joycecabanero8724]

interesting insights