From USA To Retired In Pattaya: 12 Years Of Expat Life In Thailand - Every Story Is Unique!

[@MargaritasinParadise]

Mark haa a wealth of knowledge and a totally different perspective to most people I meet. He was a definite joy to Interview. If you know anyone or would like to participate in an interview, please comment below or send me an email to [e-mail]😊

[@keepitreal1547]

$3500 p/m. I travel the world all inclusive on less than half that, regardless of where. I also know many expats who live fine on $1,000

[@MargaritasinParadise]

You're doing great. Mark lives a wantless life & literally goes & does what he wants. I have a budget less than that and try to save for a rainy day. Like you, I know many people who live on $1000 a month. Of course, they have to budget to survive in Pattaya. Thanks for your comment.

[@neil1006]

Please tell your buddy when he gets to Surin, to get to the train station by 8.00 am on the first day of the festival. That is where the parade begins. It is very entertaining there. You can then walk with the elephants through the town to end up at the elephant feast. It's the best day of the 3 days. One day at the stadium is enough.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I just passed on the message. Thanks for your input. Hopefully, it will help others as well.

[@DaveyB-uo5ts]

Pretty good interview. Not sure what I was thinking before when I said interviews are boring 🤔🤷🏻‍♂️ 😅 Thanks Tom 👍🏼. Great info. Appreciate you sharing 🤗 Dave

[@MargaritasinParadise]

Glad you enjoyed it! The main thing is, all these guys are different, their opinions are mixed. You get to hear from another side of the fence.

[@user-dy5pq7tp7g]

I bought a Ford Eddie Bauer series years ago paid cash and it rusted out like all the other minivans and so I bought a Toyota Camry and never looked back.😊

[@MargaritasinParadise]

Toyota Camry's are fantastic cars.

[@sarlina1]

Very interesting guy, with an interesting story. But I disagree with his budget views. Foreigners do not need 3500 USD a month to live comfortably in Thailand. He does not even drink alcohol.. 1500-2000 USD will give you a very good life in Thailand. Most of the people I know live on such budgets, they are really happy, and they do eat steak once in a while too.. Thanks, Tom, another good interview 😊

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I agree $3500 is excess. Mark did say with a budget of $3500, one could expect to live like a king. He also included things like travel, buying all the wants versus saving for the needs. and of course, the occasional steak & lobster.

[@fazbell]

Mark must have an OA visa since he mentioned requirements for insurance, which are not part of the "O" visa process. Always a good idea to get your visa AFTER you come here. OA visa is a bad choice because of the insurance requirements.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I think initially he had an OA but since has just kept the insurance and has an O Visa. You're definitely right though, less requirements & much easier when you're here.

[@mosscrowley3115]

Hi Tom, really enjoy your interviews, I suppose the moral of the story is different strokes for different folks. As some people commented Mark's monthly spend seems alot, but hey if he can afford it, why not. He is definitely doing something right, looking great for 72yrs, good for him. All the best wishes, stay well. God Bless 🙏 from 🇮🇪🍀🍀🍀.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

Spot on, Mark's worked his entire life and is now enjoying the benefits of his labor. He is very fortunate to afford such a lavish lifestyle while still putting away money for his old age. 😆😆😆

[@yankov_eth]

Thanks to both of you for sharing your experiences, but also for your life wisdom. Couldn't agree more when it comes to true friendship. Meeting new people and making "friends" is easy, but very different from having people you can trust with anything and call at 3am.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

Friendship doesn't normally just happen. It takes time to nurture & develop.

[@Rory235]

Nice video! I am planning to move to Thailand next year, but it does worry me that some people say $1000 budget is going to be hard to do! All I have is $1000 a month to live on. I am going to try anyway because in the states someone can not even get a place to rent for that and I would have to work til I die if I stay in the states!

[@roderick2105]

Hi Rory. I live in Pattaya and my budget is more than the $1000 a month, you mention. While I wish you well, I'd caution you to be very careful - because your limited budget is on the very low side for living here. My advice would be to give living here a try, but have a back-up plan in case your budget doesn't work out !! Good luck.

[@sarlina1]

Hello Rory! That is doable, don't be afraid to try that out. Your accomodation needs to be cheap though, but you can get a reasonably okey studio condo for rent for 7-8000 baht a month in the low season, maybe on a one year contract. If you eat Thai food, frequently go to markets (there are many of them), and for the most part stay away from bars and girls, your budget will be enough. You can rent a motorbike for 2500 baht a month. I know several people on similar budgets. You can make that work, but also remember that you need visas, and they cost you some too, over a year. Also remember insurance (voluntary but important), and calculate expenses like water and electric, gasoline. Those are always extras. Put all that together, and you might be fine with your 35.000 baht a month budget. You will not starve. And remember, swimming in the sea, and enjoying life close to the beach, is absolutely free. Good luck! 😊

[@MargaritasinParadise]

All excellent replies. If you’re planning on a 1 year move, start with your researchnow, try to find accommodations 7K baht or under. When searching, try to find condo building with elevators, a pool, fitness facility, & free wifi. I would look at buildings close to the ocean but not right on the ocean. Look for 1 year contracts starting the low season, say June to June. Other things to consider is being close to a baht bus route, a connivence store, & possibly areas that food carts gather.

[@Rory235]

@@roderick2105 Thank you for the advice. That is what I am planning a way out if things do not work out.

[@Rory235]

@@sarlina1 Hi thank you for your advice. Yes I plan a simple life, and I do not drink so that will cut a lot out of spending money.

[@stevenjones8185]

Love the leather couches 🛋..where did you purchase them ..I have a home in Hua Hin. Thanks 😊

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I bought them at Living Index Mall in Pattaya maps.app.goo.gl/Nhvq4YkCKJFhmUWa8

[@neil1006]

I don't understand the Vegemite or Butter question. You butter your bread and then put the Vegemite on. It's not one or the other. Aussies are big on butter. Another thing, when Americans try Vegemite, they always lay it on thick and then say they don't like it. I couldn't eat it like that either. A thin smear is how it's done. Cheers 🍻

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I'm learning something every day. I meet guys all the time then ask me about the Vegemite spread. We as Americans, just don't normally know this item. In future, I will try another approach to the Vegemite question.

[@roderick2105]

@@MargaritasinParadise You should try vegemite - its great spread thinly on hot toast, but its an acquired taste

[@roygoad2870]

@@MargaritasinParadiseThere’s the English option Marmite, it’s got an even stronger taste 😊

[@MargaritasinParadise]

@@roygoad2870 This is definitely an interesting topic and I'm open for any type of suggestions. Next time I'm at Siamburi Market, I will pick up these spreads and give them a try.

[@billslaven28]

Interesting interview! I lived in Minnesota for 25 years. I lived on Lake Minnetonka, (Tonka Bay), and my step-daughter attended Minnetonka High School. Did Mark coach sports at MHS? I like your interview style. Great interview. I'm now a new subscriber!

[@markchalupsky2336]

Yes I coaches girl's softball at MHS wrestling for boys at middle school

[@MargaritasinParadise]

@billslaven28 Thanks for the comments & subscription

[@billslaven28]

What years did you coach at MHS?@@markchalupsky2336

[@roderick2105]

Hi I enjoyed this interview. It was mentioned that Mark has medical insurance that costs $125 USD a month - can you tell me more about this insurance cover!!

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I have forwarded your request for information. Mark's currently traveling and I hope he finds time eventually to answer your questions.

[@rodhurst5831]

Not drinking was the best decision of your life bud. You do you enjoy!

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I can't imagine the amount of money that I would have saved if I took that course in my life. 😆 😆😆

[@JohnH33817]

Hey Tom, Mark is a very interesting man, Vikings fan QB is gone for season so it dosen't look good for Mark. I enjoyed the conversation thanks👍👍

[@MargaritasinParadise]

The Vikings are definitely in rough shape now. Thanks for the comment .

[@stanleykyle]

Happy Veterans day. Can I ask for a good recommendation for a Dentist in town? I have met a few guys here but nobody clsoe enough to consider in the inner circle yet in this past year. A guy let me try out his guitar but I still have not figured it out and might have to take some lessons sometime.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

Thanks, I have been using Dentista on Naklua road maps.app.goo.gl/5vkCEbexi6D7QqmU7 for years but just recently had to switch to Bangkok Hospital Pattaya Dentist clinic for more specialized care. Friendships really take time, eventually your inner-circle will start filling up. Practice with the guitar is key. Good luck.

[@PATThaiA]

Dentist Dr warin Dental Care Centre Pattaya Klang

[@MargaritasinParadise]

Great option as well

[@aqueem]

Please ask your friend if he knows a place that caters to parrots in terms of grooming and boarding. Also a bird doctor would be helpful. I want to bring my parrot with me and can't locate anyplace. I am interested in the Pattaya area

[@MargaritasinParadise]

Sorry about the delay in answering your question. I finally made contact with Mark and he doesn’t have any information for you. As far as bringing your Parrot He said it will likely be difficult and a costly thing to do.

[@dz8820]

Good interview 👍

[@MargaritasinParadise]

Thanks

[@louis20122]

Wow. It is amazing these expats moving away from families. It must be very hard for them especially during holidays. They probably miss family get togethers.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

That's a real concern. I think alot people rely on advance technology today like facetime to gap the bridge.

[@ksmithpmp]

Louis, men and women are very different.

[@lostboi3974]

That budget is crazy. 1200-1600

[@MargaritasinParadise]

1200-1600 is very doable

[@davidcolletti7136]

3500 a month !? .. shit ..ill live pretty good in my house here in the U.S for that much a month.. What the hells he talking about..?

[@louis20122]

Agree. $3,500 is comfortable living in the U.S. or even in Europe.

[@MrAntonLucas]

I'm 70 and will be retiring to Thailand within the year on $3,703 per month social security. I sent my daughter to find the place for me on May 8, 2023, she explored much of the country, and came to the conclusion after 6 months or so that Koh Samui was the place, but then found Koh Pha Ngan. So after all of this, I haveI rented a detached house in the jungle near a waterfall across the street from the beach in Koh Pha Ngan for 8,000 Baht per month ($240 per month!) I could stay here in the Chicago area and make ends meet, though my current nut is about $4,000 per month, but it would be a bit of a struggle compared to living like a king in paradise. What would you do?

[@roderick2105]

@@MrAntonLucas On $3700 a month you could have a good life in Thailand. But living here is not finding Shangrila for everyone. I'd recommend you try living full-time here and if you like it - stay on !!

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I agree, $3500 is living in excess. Most people will to budget somewhat but having that money make sticking to budget less demanding and probably somewhat easier to save some.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

no brainer there. Ready Set Go

[@wetluv4]

I use to go to Thailand in April for sokran but had to stop. It was always 110° and 100% humidity every day. I have been through Minnesota several times and the weather was no where close to that extreme. I am going this December and hope for nicer weather. I am now 64 and can't handle the heat like i use to in Thailand. And I'm from Houston!

[@MargaritasinParadise]

December's weather will feel great. Normally, I need a jacket in the evenings.

[@markchalupsky2336]

I have lived her almost 12 year and the temp has never reached 100 degrees and the humidity has never reached 100%--

[@wetluv4]

@@markchalupsky2336 I checked the temperature every day I was there. Got heat stroke there. April in Pattaya and Bangkok is no joke.

[@wetluv4]

@@markchalupsky2336 April 2013 during sokran. It was literally off the charts hot!!!

[@Resmith18SR]

Having been to Pattaya many times its a great place to retire and live except for the never ending heat and humidity. It is even worse than Florida where I grew up and if you live in Thailand you have to spend most if not all of your life in air-conditioned malls or at your place.

[@phillipharding6610]

1000 % correct! Love Thailand but the never ending Heat I’m sorry but it’s too much for me ! Hopefully I get back for a holiday soon but love my Home town ! Melbourne Australia. All the best for everybody’s journey.

[@Resmith18SR]

@@phillipharding6610 Exactly Philip. If it were around 70 or 80 degrees with 40 or 50 percent humidity I would have been back there to live out the rest of my life. I've been living here in Mexico and it's about 80 every day 60 at night and you can sit outside without sweating like crazy.

[@louis20122]

Really??? I love heat and humidity.

[@Resmith18SR]

@@louis20122 Move to Thailand then, you're going to love it.

[@louis20122]

@@Resmith18SR Only if it offers all the things I take for granted like nice roads nice and clean living environment. I don't know if I want to encounter tons of strayed dogs on the streets

[@williamsparks8013]

Will he give me more details about the cruises he took, and the name of the company?

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I have mentioned your request but he hasn't had time to respond as he's on another vacation at the current moment.

[@stevensgoodallsg]

Learn Thai. Respect Thai prople, it's culture and the country. Do not act wll out farang. Dress respectfully and appropriately when required and or necessary.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

Good plan to blend in.

[@stevensgoodallsg]

@@MargaritasinParadise lol. My Thai friends say I'm more Thai than they are.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I have other friends that are the same way. Then most of friends are probably just to laid back, maybe lazy, they accept the lifestyle to be taken care of, so to speak. Still good on you.

[@gibbs2799]

It's hard for old timers to learn Thai languages. None speaks Thai, except simple few words, "layo-layo, "chep", "boompui", etc.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

You're so right, sort of like teaching old dogs new tricks. Haha

[@gibbs2799]

@@MargaritasinParadise and there are lots of old dogs and old mules in Pattaya.

[@bravefart1000]

i am in my mid 60s and learning to speak Thai , perhaps you can assist me on speaking bullshit, do you give lessons.?

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I wish you luck. I've went down that road many times. On my last trip to the USA, I brought back a Primsluer Thai Course. Prior times I had great success but tend to loose interest eventually. Good Luck

[@Resmith18SR]

How those guys wear all that stuff when driving a motorcycle over there is unbelievable. I used to sweat so much there just walking around for a short time in shorts and a tank top.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I think you have to consider the circumstance, riding a motorcycle, you get constant airflow & direct UV exposure most of the time.

[@Resmith18SR]

@@MargaritasinParadise I understand, but it must still be unbelievably hot. You are aware that Thailand has one of the highest fatality rates in the world when it comes to motor bikes? In one year they had 14,000 motorcycle fatalities.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

Wow, I had no idea the statistics were that high.

[@PATThaiA]

Liked.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

Thanks so much

[@roderick2105]

Hi Mark - You said you live in a central location in Pattaya - by chance are you in Pattaya Tai ??

[@MargaritasinParadise]

No, actualy on Pattaya Klang

[@markchalupsky2336]

Pattaya Klang

[@roderick2105]

@@markchalupsky2336 Hi Mark I'm in Pattaya tai, although I visit Big C Extra - regularly. I think Big C has the best bakery in town. Would you like to have a coffee sometime, someday ?

[@williamsparks8013]

How does he watch the Vikings and other shows?

[@markchalupsky2336]

TruVision or stream games

[@MargaritasinParadise]

He uses Truevision TV satellite dish and Netflix, oops I just saw Mark answered this..😃

[@williamsparks8013]

@@markchalupsky2336 Yes, but how do you stream games? When I try on KZbin, they are always blocked.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I have an android box. It gives me access to the NFL Network and probably 10K other channels. I can literally watch the Chief's play from a Kansas City channel or if that's no good, I can watch Sky Sports. I have a friend that sells the box & subscriptions. But, you can find these boxes in TukCom if you're in Pattaya. My initial cost was 2K baht for the box & 2.5K baht for a yearly subscription.

[@williamsparks8013]

I live in Bangkok, but visit Pattaya often. I have cable through True Visions. What do you suggest?

[@gregweigel8115]

Sorry dude did you actually ask a guy in his 60s if he thought Medical. insurance was important?...

[@MargaritasinParadise]

It's amazing how many people here don't have medical insurance and are just rolling the dice.

[@bravefart1000]

most that I know prefer just having money in the bank and if the shit hits the fan then they draw on the funds.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

This is the perfect example of what we're talking about. I've had so many friends use up their savings and forced to return to their home country and go back to work.

[@mariolibertad9972]

So you're okay not seeing your kids or grandchildren? Being 10k miles away they probably won't be coming there. Do you plan on going back? You have some kind of huevos pa.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I think Mark is talking to them online as much as he can. He mentioned in the interview, that even when he was there, his family had their own lives and he didn't get to see them very often.

[@bigradwolf5001]

@@MargaritasinParadise Yup, you can see anytime your family anywhere nowadays.

[@Doug-zl8nb]

When you get older you're lonely and you only have so much time left...dating is awful in North America

[@sorry9388]

@@Doug-zl8nb isn’t that the truth! I’m in the states now for two months, and I’m a fairly reasonably slim attractive 64-year-old, nobody even talks to me here, in Thailand I’m still a rockstar! Three more weeks I’m back for 10 more months. I like your interviews!

[@markchalupsky2336]

yes I will be going back

[@keepitreal1547]

What is it that most Americans in Thailand are lazy when it comes to learning Thai?

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I think it's because living in Pattaya most people either know English or are trying to learn English. If you go up country, to a small village, the story will be different. Learning Thai will be almost essential for long-term survival.

[@keepitreal1547]

@@MargaritasinParadise Yes most Americans visit, settle in or near to Pattaya because of English speakers being around them, plus the sex industry. The point I'm making is that Americans are by far the largest % of expats that don't care to learn Thai. In most cases have zero desire to do so. All other nationalities, the majority want to learn & so practice. It's the same in many countries I've encountered Americans. I wonder what the reason is, or is it just that most Americans don't think they have to learn...& so won't. Places in Portugal, Spain, Philippines are the same, little Americas & no desire to learn the local languages.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

@@keepitreal1547In that text, you are spot-on. I live in such an international community that many times I don’t look at people as say Russian or Spanish. And being American, I may not pick up the attitude or habits of my fellow Americans like someone else might.

[@keepitreal1547]

@@MargaritasinParadise Thanks for acknowledging this, it's appreciated. I class myself as European & go out of my way to learn the languages of whatever country I travel, most Europeans do. Unfortunately in the 20+ countries I've travelled, it's always your fellow Americans that go where tourist English is spoken (Pattaya/Jomtien/Dumaguete) etc or otherwise & don't even attempt to learn any of the language they plan to see out their days. Is it ignorance, is it an unwillingness to want to mix with the locals, it is they only desire comfort from their own people? As a European, it's always come across as strange to me.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I get your point. I think many American's feel so fortunate to come from a country that so many wish to immigrate too or be apart of. I ask people all the time where they would like to go? I constantly here New York, Los Angeles, Miami. I know this doesn't include everyone but more than not I will ask people where they are from? The will respond, guess. I always say the USA. Most people say, I wish Responses like this shows what impact the USA has on the world. Knowing just reinforces how fortunate I am to be from the USA.

[@bbustin1747]

Checks out the propaganda on CNN everyday 😂

[@MargaritasinParadise]

I stopped watch the news just because of it.

[@markchalupsky2336]

I am a American patriot--not a trumper

[@user-dy5pq7tp7g]

Has he dated any beautiful women?

[@MargaritasinParadise]

Mark has a very lovely fulltime girlfriend; which would probably rate on most western standards as a 10

[@james-sh2lq]

$3500 a month to live. The guys wearing cheap clothing doesn't look like hes got a dime.

[@MargaritasinParadise]

Mark definitely lives well and buy exactly what he wants.