Moving to Pattaya in Thailand what to expect, could you do it?

[@AndersJensenTH]

90-Day, Workpermit, Non-O, Non-B, Non-Visa, Immigration, Ministry of Labour, anything to do with authorities is different in Thailand than anywhere else in the world. Patience, patience, patience, a bag of fruit of the season and a smile will get you to that sticker or stamp you are looking for. Be nice and spread love and kindness.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Great shout mate

[@martypoll]

I’ve lived here in Bankbook since 2017. 1) Separation from friends/family has never been a problem for me. I made 2 week visits to the US in 2017, 2018, 2019, and then there was Covid. Those visits were enough for me. The 12 hour time difference does makes phone calls difficult though. 2) Boredom - I had already been retired 5 years and had adjusted to retirement life. I am fine with time alone but I do schedule something social every week. Also I am married to a Thai and I enjoy my time with her 24/7. 3) Friends - I have only met one expat that tried to take advantage of me and I dodged that bullet myself. All my other new friends are terrific though you have to be open to meeting all kinds of people. 4) Thai language - I learned to speak and read at the same time at a proper language school. I am not exactly conversational and I have my Thai wife to move things along but I can confirm that reading is helpful. 5) Thai time? Not really a problem with my wife. It was more of a problem with my first wife in the US. I am more relaxed about time as a retiree in Thailand. Anything else? I’ve not had any problems with Immigration but I am an organized person. Immigration can be a little intimidating so find a good source to keep up on any immigration changes. I recommend the Facebook group - Thai visa advice. (no you do not need an agent but that is “up to you”.)

[@senianns9522]

Good post! I'm coming up to nearly 38 years of having lived here! Ran a business here and I retired in 2017. First came here in 1973 on the way to work in Singapore. Came back a few times but arrived 'with a mission' in 1982. Didn't like Pattaya much and eventually went to a pretty nice -----in those days Phuket'. That place changed beyond recognition! I can use southern Thai dialect and nowadays many locals do NOT like the fact you know any Thai at all! They just want quick turnaround tourists so they can extract money! I live in a quiet place in Rayong now, good sea breezes all day long! Good luck to you!

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thanks for sharing

[@jdsalinger147]

Trev, very heartfelt video, my friend. Please know that your work is greatly appreciated 👍

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you so much

[@japanimated9683]

If I went to to Thailand to prevent boredom I would create 3-4 non negotiable routines to do everyday. Gym, study Thai, talk to at least 3 strangers in thai is probably a good start.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

3 strangers.... Love that

[@jon-ie4li]

I spent some time with British bar owner in Hua Hin I told him I was planning to Retire to Thailand , the most important bit of information he gave me was if you have Budget, Triple it. It doesn't matter if you half a million pounds you have time on your hands and you will spend it. If you want to enjoy your retirement in Thailand you need money and lots of it.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

You have to be very sensible with your money out here is easily spent

[@99fulham99]

In my humble opinion, if anybody is planning to retire here in Pattaya , I recommend buying or renting somewhere that is spacious . I like to look at the ocean - views anywhere in the world are in general, more expensive. I pay a premium ,But I'm not plagued by endless music until 2am or 50cc motorbikes in the middle of the night. Studios or similar should be avoided . Would be nice to have a spare bedroom , just in case relatives or friends want to visit you. Quite is the aim and party in Pattaya central when you feel necessary . Accept partying everynight is over -It will kill you Don't agree with learning written Thai -Most Thais have trouble reading and writing their own language. Everywhere can be boring . Fillet steak can become boring if you have it everyday . Beans on toast can be a refreshing change. Golf is a good outlet , but expensive here in Thailand. Difficult to take up a new hobby in your 70's -Its all about avoiding falling over. Make sure you have a quality IPTV service provider (Not an internet provider) Buy a car or a scooter to get around -A car preferable for safety reasons.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Good shout

[@ray-sharp8563]

This is solid advance. Thank you for this content. Everybody has an opinion. but u have laid out facts

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you very much

[@davemears8272]

TOP TEN DON'T LIST --> (1) DON'T TAKE DRUGS (2) DON'T COMMIT CRIMES (3) DON'T BOOZE TOO MUCH (4) DON'T BE AGGRESSIVE (5) DON'T FIGHT THAIS (6) DON'T LOSE YOUR IDENTITY (7) DON'T IGNORE HEALTH ISSUES (8) DON'T DISCONNECT FROM YOUR FAMILY & CLOSE FRIENDS (9) DON'T COMPARE EAST & WEST (10) DON'T BE AN ARROGANT OR IGNORANT FARANG.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Gotcha

[@ianblack3181]

for any first timers ,dont just go bangkok and pattaya ,i know the nightlife is amazing and it is VERY difficult to see anything else ,but please try, thailand is just amazing ,go other places ,kanchanaburi is only 2 hours from bangkok and it is so good ,and again travel out with the bars ,there is so much to do

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Great shout mate!

[@petermontez9686]

Spot on Brother! Great Advice I have been thinking about! Great Video.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you very much

[@vicbrooks6575]

My mom had a rule. She would lend me money up to 100US but would not lend me another dime until I paid her back. I have kept that rule with all my friends. Thai time / Filipino time are both the same. It goes both ways. If they don't show up on time don't take it personal, just go do something else. Remember, in Thailand or the Philippines, you are the ATM. They need you more than you need them.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Fair one

[@df2403]

Love your channel. Keep it up. Hope to meet you someday in Pattaya

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you very much

[@g.raequitas6693]

Mate that learning to read tip is brilliant! Thank you.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

No problem 👍

[@leoslayer3304]

Trevor, great Vlog as always, I am there right now with the kids! I think we try to hang on to the kids rather than the other way round lol, my oldest is just getting to that age that it’s time cut the purse strings and for me to move on and hopefully to Thailand (not Patts) could never live there lol. First thing people need to do is get out of “holiday mode”, it can get very messy and end up with drink dependency which in-turn will lead to health problems! Hobbies are a must, luckily I love travelling, wildlife and motorbikes, so combining all works for me. Learn some Thai and get along with Thai people and make friends. I have loads of Thai friends as well as some expat friends. Hopefully catch you for a beer when I am over soon. Oh! And always remember that bar managers are not your friends, they are doing a job 😏

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Fantastic mate wish you and your family all the best

[@Xylo58]

Agree 100% Well done. If I may, if your considering relocating to Thailand first be honest with yourself and think it over thrice. Are you a complainer? Do you find it hard to accept that life will be very different for you here? Can you withstand the heat, rain, mosquitoes etc? If not don’t come. Have a nice holiday and enjoy yourself here but realize that a holiday and relocating are two very different experiences.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Solid advice

[@howdo1govern995]

Sat many a night in my old condo thinking what the fuck am I doing out here when my loved ones were in the uk. Pattaya gets incredibly boring when living there. The holiday feeling well in truly leaves. I spent the majority of my last two years doing Muay Thai daily and going out on my bikes. One of the things I miss the most is jumping on the scooter and going out to eat.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Yeah can so relate to this

[@petebailey5701]

That’s a great info vid mate, learning Thai is a great way to kill some time too, as a time occupier, some golf, some gym, some walks, day trip exploring, maybe some volunteer help….keep the mind busy. Yep Thai time lol….just take it easy and don’t get crazy when it doesn’t happen at 6pm, expect 7 or 8 😆

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Great shout mate

[@petebailey5701]

@@Buzzinpattaya hope to meet ya mate in October sometime. And don’t forget to chill and take some time out for YOU too mate ! Yes I know the ups and downs…lows and peaks… Tcare Trev 👍

[@speedypanda454]

In this video I´ve seen for the first time a long commercial. It was for a vacation in Greece. Thats great man. You are getting there. Keep on grinding out videos.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

I'm trying my best

[@gilllawson2214]

Living here is definitely different than coming for a holiday! The vibe is different after being here a few years

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Indeed

[@markreuben87]

Great advice Trevor,have been married to thai for 13 very happy years,but in England, and still learning how they think,haven't a clue but its fun trying,thinking of taking plunge and living in Thailand, your advice is very helpful thank you.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Nice one mate

[@andrewshinegold6988]

Thai time was desribed to me as "sometime between sunrise and sunset, sometime between Monday and Sunday at any given month". You are so right about a hobby and learning the languGE. i spent a long time in Switerland, the most important thing was the language. I am really looking forward to coming back in the next 12 months

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Loved reading your comment thank you very much for sharing

[@PREPFORIT]

Important things to consider Trev 👍 I would add That men close to retirement should find a new Hobby before they travel To Thailand. I mean hobbies that ARE quiet and not stressful. to fill in those do-nothing days. I LOVE fishing and I plan on "shore fishing" and inland lake fishing when I retire there. The quieter the better. and I could catch Dinner. Bird watching may sound uninteresting but to others, it could be incredible. You can not see all of Thailand's wildlife in one lifetime! Volunteering is a good choice. You can help the less fortunate . ! You were in construction but you are going mental with boredom..? Then Build a new room or garden area etc. For a local low-income family, A poor area's school or charity.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

great shout that mate

[@martypoll]

You need to be careful about volunteering. There is actually a special visa for that.

[@PREPFORIT]

@@martypoll Oh did not know that Thank You 👍

[@stephencollins2089]

All good advice Trev , in my 8 years working and living in Thailand all those points are valid ! As far as reading Thai , I didn’t get there but my ‘’pigeon ‘’Thai was ok for me …..working there for a big multi national from Germany where time and projects are constantly measured i saw a huge difference between the Bangkok Thais and the rural ones , literally chalk and cheese , but somehow we were successful, don’t ask me how !

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Nice one mate thank you very much for sharing your experience here

[@robertb2196]

Great tip in regards to learning Thai! More vids like this please.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Will do my best mate

[@iomtilt]

Great advice Trevor 👍

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thanks mate

[@Exploring_Adventures]

This is a really good video. Thank you for your content. Please keep making videos :)

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you very much

[@10MinutestoRouletteFortune]

Nailed it as usual. The best way to ruin a friendship is when you get money involved. All of my friends know I don't loan money.......ever. "thai time" is mind blowing. I've got in the habit of saying "I'll be at X place tonight, meet me there."

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Exactly mate well said

[@dazsav514]

Good chat Trev, yes champ all the 🐝 Beez are the challenges…Boredom, booze n Broads- must have a focus with commitment and a degree of Staunch…cheers n beerz Daz

[@Buzzinpattaya]

nice one mate

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thanks mate

[@scotiathai5006]

I have personally been planning retiring in LOS for many years, after traveling there some 30 times. during my last trip with the help of your channel and other bloggers, Phil Le Pub, NDTVI, your new Buzzin Bar, I have met many new people I am keeping in touch with and I trust I will meet on my return. Very much looking forward to your golf society, and the other activities you are planning. these are fantastic opportunities to meet new people have some sort of discipline regards time. It is very easy to loose all aspects of time and purpose when staying both for a short time let alone retiring. Keep up the great work Buzzin looking forward to my return to the Buzzin Bar. Great news that Buzzin Bar is getting a better pool table I will return the seven ball it's a matter of time lol..

[@Buzzinpattaya]

All the best

[@dealerslicenseops]

Great video. You are doing a great service to many men

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thanks mate much appreciated

[@johnlyons4391]

Very good video Trevor, keep up the good work

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you I will try my best

[@craigg4925]

The one thing I have learned in my life, is never loan money, I always, if someone is in a bad way and needs some help, I give them the money they need, that way if they repay me great, if not no problem, this works most people I gave money to repaid me, the ones I loaned money to did not. life is funny that way. and always manage what you expect to happen. I try to aim low and see what happens, if you aim high you will miss the mark most of the time, and that leads to you thinking you are not having the time you should have had. life is like auto racing, can I race, can I finish, can I compete, can I challenge the winners, can I win. if you start out trying to be a winner you miss all the fun stuff.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Absolutely fantastic advice thank you

[@sepehrjelveh414]

Thanks Chief, that was very informative ✌️

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Welcome mate

[@zazeel1]

great list Buzz!! ive been living in thailand for 6 months of the year for several years before covid and I've come up against all of those things. The other big one for me was the constant hot weather. I'm a tropical girl for sure.... but eventually even i start to feel a little bit over the constant heat. So i'm sure a few of the men who first arrive must find it very hard to deal with. Obviously you need good air con in your condo/house. And one of the other ways i cope is by hanging out in places with air con....especially shopping malls. But there comes a point where i just want to go be somewhere cooler for a couple of months. But i have another question that i havent had to think about before. Up until now i've been living in Hua Hin.... great place in so many ways but I might be ready for a change for various reasons and I'm seriously considering Pattaya. Didnt think I'd ever live in "sin city"😜 but theres a lot of things I like about Pattaya. So I'm trying it out this year. And the biggest thing i'm wondering about is the lack of other western women. Will i find enough people to hang out with? Very happy to hang with Thai women.... and Western men and I'm sure i'll find a few who are willing to do the odd coffee or dinner. But it would be nice to meet a few women. Obviously i'm not your target audience so you didnt mention this one. But it would be great if you know any western women who live in Pattaya to do a video with them. If theyre interesting women i'm sure your male audience would find it worth watching.🙏❤ Be great if more western ex pat women gave vlogging a go. Maybe i need to start me own!

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Well said about the heat. I am lucky as I actually enjoy being boiled every day hahaha. But yes many as you said find the heat hard to adjust to. Regarding coming here and mixing with Western Women. I am aware there are a few Meeting groups and stuff that goes on so yes I am sure you will soon make friends and fit in. I personally know a few western women here and they all seem happy. When you do head up come say hi......

[@zazeel1]

@@Buzzinpattaya Awww... thankyou Buzz!! I most certainly will.... and thanks for the reply!! Good to hear theres some happy western women in Pattaya! Happy is good!

[@zazeel1]

​@@eugenebooth2467 LOL!! yes very straight....I've had some great relationships and a few not so great.... I'm still freinds with them all but Ive been single for a long time now.... havent given up on men.... just cant find one i'm attracted to enough to give up my single life. And the longer i continue to be alone the happier i seem to become. I have the best life, i'm never lonely and i never have to compromise or listen to someone snoring! I do miss having a man in my life at times but not enough to settle for anything less than fantasticly awesome. And i come to Thailand because its the most magical place in the world ive ever been to. I know the chances of meeting a man there are basically zero but I just adore the place. And yeah i guess I'd be open to a beautiful Thai guy! But its certainly not the reason i'm there.😘

[@zazeel1]

@@eugenebooth2467 LOL!! Mr Right in Pattaya.... Hmmm... Don't go putting ideas like that into my head!! But hell, who knows, anything is possible I guess. Wouldn't that be a laugh! Are you a bit of a romantic Eugene??

[@zazeel1]

@@eugenebooth2467 Broken!! Oh lordy, that's not good Eugene. That's so sad. You really don't need to stay broken... No matter what you've been through you can heal if you want to. I've been wounded and broken so many times. Times there I thought I just didn't have the strength to get back up and go on living. But somehow I always manage to put myself back together again. But I guess I'm just an eternal optimist, glass half full person. I've been called Pollyanna more than once!! Lol! And I know everyone isn't like that. You sound like you might be a bit hard on yourself.❤️ Maybe you could be kinder to yourself! But you've chosen to make Chaing Rai your Thai home. Very cool! I've only been there once but I loved it. I too thought I could live there. There's just something kind of special about it. I lived in Chiang Mai for the first year I did the 6 month thing. Loved it there but just too far from the ocean for me. Didn't think I'd ever want to live in Pattaya... But here I am about to do it.😎💃☀️

[@joelnelson6259]

Thanks for the tips! Im gonna give it a try , retiring to Pattaya in December. Met with Darren about 15 month visa. Mypattaya condo about options. Yes i will miss my daughter and my cats, but... I want to enjoy my life, the USA has lost my affection.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

mate go for it!

[@grumpyoldgoat5945]

Great info, love the videos 👍 I'm starting now to look at bringing the family over for a new adventure in my early retirement 😎 I'll buy you a beer when we get there 🍻

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Nice one mate all the best

[@vincentcomley6892]

All good advice Trev. I first came here 8 years ago and have lived here 2 years and would definitely have added adjusting to the heat and climate which I find a constant battle. I am overweight but not ridiculously so. I try to walk as much as possible but sweat heavily and find that can cause chafing, heat rashes and spots etc which, whilst aren't life threatening, can be unpleasant. I would possibly also have mentioned the wildlife. It's not that bad in the city but you will still come across, snakes (particularly in places like Buddha mountain), cockroaches, rats and a wide variety of insects, many of which bite. Mosquitoes and flies love me and if I don't cream or spray up my legs and elbows in particular then I am guaranteed to be bitten on an evening out or even just sat in the house sometimes. The more I drink (and consequently usually sweat) the more I am bitten, often without even realising it, especially if drunk 555. Again, whilst they are generally not serious, I find them to be a constant pain in the arse. Life has been a little easier since a friend of my Mrs gave me a gadget called "bite away" that she got in Germany. It's battery operated and stings when applied to a bite but it virtually eliminates the itchiness and reduces any swelling.

[@suphatrachaiyasit7531]

Vincent yes the heat is a killer some people get use to it others like me just carn't I know of a lady from England loved it at first for the first couple of years then she became imprisoned in her own home in front of the aircon same as me she left thailand and retired to Spain I think if we can afford it would be a few months of the year in thailand around Christmas is the best weather then a few months in our home country's

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts

[@happycook6737]

After you shower, use a hair dryer to dry your folds of skin-- especially underneath. Then apply Thai prickly heat "Snake Powder". Do this powdering standing in the shower because it is messy and then you can rinse spilled powder down the drain. I find this extremely helpful in tropical countries and this brand of powder works best. I also use an American product called Lume which is a deodorant for folds of skin. In the tropics I shower in the morning and before sleeping. This helps a lot. Also immediately treat any itchy areas because fungal infections are very common.

[@geoffroberts1608]

Trevor I hope I’m right with your name 😂 you seem to be a empathic person giving good advice to people and genuine caring for them,blessings brother 💜⚔️💜⚔️

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thanks mate

[@shane0traveller451]

Great topic really keen on these ideas and issues!!!

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thanks mate

[@jaycutts8054]

You can easily pop over and see your family in the UK, would do you good and would be a good vlog series.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Hard at the moment

[@adgrisby]

Nice, Great information , expecting to retire in June this year....Thinking about retirement in Thailand ....Thanks again for the information

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you very much I'm glad you enjoyed my work

[@MikeStrike-Multipotential]

Great infos, tips and thoughts thanks from Germany.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Very welcome my friend

[@kongswethai3964]

many good advice mate 🖕 i agree about the language 100%, i started to learn thai by myself after my first trip -88, at first i didn't care about learning how to read & write but i discovered after a while how helpful it was, by learning the language i got to know my thai mates and we are still close friends after 30 years and that wouldnt had happened without learning Thai & the culture

[@Buzzinpattaya]

nice one mate fair play

[@christopherpangallo8466]

Good advice. Thank you for the information.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Any time!

[@pal555]

I will be in Thailand for my last holiday on songkran I'm just sorting a few more things before I move to Thailand on a retirement visa looking forward to moving I won't miss the UK I hate living here nothing here for me

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Wish you all the best

[@pal555]

@@Buzzinpattaya cheers Trevor

[@yitzi5734]

Great advice. I totally agree with all what you said as this happened to me when I moved from the US to Israel. Knowing the local language really helps to better connect to locals, so yeah great idea to jump in as soon as possible. Its not going to be easy for all but will be worth the effort. Thai time sounds great to me, I've been practicing for many years, lol.. Trips back to the US can be brutal, im guessing its a similar airline btwn Thailand and UK. One reason why tend to take extended trips back to make the 12hr (non-stop) to 17+hr (one-stop) flights worth it.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you for sharing your experiences

[@lostinaustralia-dave7802]

Hi T, very useful tips and advice, I had to learn the hard way (not the best way)

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Same mate

[@lostinaustralia-dave7802]

@@Buzzinpattaya Very obviously that is the case T, you have done the mistakes, worked it out, and are simply passing on the potential problems and saving people the issues before it becomes their problem. Good work, thanks for sharing.

[@jonoda894]

You can live in Pattaya without learning the thai language, but if you move to another part, Khon Kaen, Korat, Buriram etc. you need to learn the language to understand the culture. My hobby is to sit and watch naked girls dancing around a pole, bit hard at the moment 😅

[@ratchfordgeorge]

you can live in Thailand without knowing the language however, in my opinion, it's about respect to know the language if you are living there. We are lucky living in the west as English is a universal language. We take for granted that we can travel just about anywhere and expect the language to be known.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Yep when I go home zero English is spoken

[@johncarr1710]

@@Buzzinpattaya I'm very surprised you're not teaching your kid's English it's such an advantage to them in the futher .

[@drew32]

The Fcuk Inn looks interesting. Great slogan. Fancy a review of that place one day? lol

[@Buzzinpattaya]

try my best mate

[@thaireetired75]

New sub🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 🇹🇭👍mozzies love me n getting woken up at 6am by the village master lol

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Lol welcome

[@davereade4017]

Morning trev its cold and wet in Congleton what you say is spot on

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Cheers mate, hope the sun comes out soon

[@DaveTheDasher77]

Great advice again , Cheers mate

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thanks mate

[@darm1735]

Been out here some 8 years now Trev, my biggest ‘struggle’ was getting rid of the missus back in the UK!! 😂😂 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Haha mine too

[@dolphinvlogs2831]

I've heard you mention learning to read thai a few times now trevor. Learning to fully communicate in the language will open many doors and provide respect. Sound advice on keeping some westerners at arms length. I've heard this many times, and stickman swears by this for years now

[@Buzzinpattaya]

It seems daunting at first but once you get into it it's very easy as it is with many things

[@REK0911]

Thank you for this!

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Very welcome my friend

[@onepath5978]

Amazing mate great info as usual Thanks

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you very much

[@edwelsh9035]

Thanks for the advice and great video. I plan to retire and move to Thailand later this ye. I understand I have to money in Thai bank account and health insurance? What is the amount required? How long does the money have to remain and is it easily accessible?. Also do the banks offer safety deposit boxes to store valuable items? Also is it best to buy insurance before traveling or getting it in Thailand? Also is it better do a 6 month lease on a apartment vs a year? Can you please do a video on these subjects for us newbies?

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you and yes I will cover this off soon

[@martypoll]

If you purchase an OA visa from the Thai consulate in your home country then you will always need health insurance to get a yearly extension. If you arrive on as a tourist you can convert that to a 90 day nonimmigrant O visa and then extend that for a year and no health insurance is required. The 1 year extension financial requirements are either 800,000 in a Thai bank which is essentially unusable or 65,000 baht/month in to a Thai bank and can be spent down to zero each month. The extension financial requirements are the same for an O or OA visa. I have an OA from 2017 but if I was going to do it again today I would come as a tourist and get a non-O. I do recommend health insurance but it is probably better to decouple it from the visa extension requirements.

[@scottthompson8946]

Well, for fuk's sake....now ya tell me! 🤣🤣🤣🤣 Just signed my lease in Jomtien starting in May!! 🤞

[@Buzzinpattaya]

All good mate am sure

[@naturalselfyoga1617]

Thanks for the advice about learning to read Thai. I've been learning bits and pieces from my Thai girlfriend but never thought about reading it. Also I'd probably add to your list that Thailand is ALWAYS HOT! Great video.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Glad to have given you a tip mate, honestly it really helps.... and yes, hot hot hot lol

[@senianns9522]

You have to read! Buy the kids books Gor Gai, Kor Kwai and start by joining up the letter dots! Try to remember the letters , then move on to the small simple words! I can now read pretty well , even the small signboards in hospitals and pharmacies! Give it a try!

[@NeilBranson]

I agree too much time on your hands when you retire over here, I tend to go travelling and exploring and the odd vlog for something to do and avoid the bar scene :-) I did a bit of volunteer work (Police) and also agree, watch who you make friends with over here

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Great comment

[@rickman2267]

I lived in Phnom Phen for 4 months, I started drinking in the day time at the local convenience store with a few others every 2nd day, that was fun, but then would go out 4 nights a week as well. Just to much, now I think of it. Cheers!

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Wow thanks for sharing

[@robinmasters2530]

Lea & Perrins Worester Sauce is the thing I always miss

[@Buzzinpattaya]

God damn my memory bank was just going whoosh LOL

[@paulmurphy5648]

Hi Trev, I agree with all you say. I lived in India for 3 years and my hardest thing was adjusting to the time-keeping. In the UK we have GMT - Greenwich Mean Time. They have Indian Standard Time or as we expats called it Indian Stretchy Time!!! And yes, NEVER trust anyone...

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thanks for sharing!

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thanks for sharing!

[@cunneyes]

Many people have told me, "Pattaya is not like the rest of Thailand", yep obviously, but beyond the nightlife, it's said that it differs because of many factors, the way people communicate, behave, the way of life, the day-to-day manner of living. Pattaya is unique and if you think you can live life in fun city on a 24-7 basis then have at it. But the rest of greater Thailand is very different.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

My home life up in the country compared to my life here couldn't be any further apart

[@hiroshi138]

I can relate to the one about the language difficulties from my time living in Japan. You really lose your sense of independence once you can't speak, read, or write. Something as simple as signing up for internet service becomes an insurmountable task that you'll need help with...like an illiterate child. 😔

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Well said

[@okbilly1]

I believe one of the hardest is to leave your kids back home & move to Thailand, you also get labelled as well from family/friends.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

leaving family is a heartbreaker as I know from first hand experience

[@okbilly1]

@@Buzzinpattaya you’re a strong man, take care buddy

[@Ian4444four]

I still struggle with the language even after learning the written alphabet. They say that people that know morse code (like Trevor), have an advantage in learning languages....but I'll persevere

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Keep going mate, learn a subject word a day and a joining word a day and you will soon be there mate.

[@senianns9522]

@@Buzzinpattaya Kh. Trevor please --slow down you pronunciation--- I hear what you are trying to say but you do tend to 'blurt it out'! Not a criticism, just an observation!

[@malin5468]

@@Buzzinpattaya My professor, who spoke both Chinese and Japanese, failed to master Thai, so I think you are smarter than he was. You may not have been good at school, but I think you are a smart dude.

[@tonythetiger2675]

My Thai wife is impatient , when she want something right away , i just tell her ," i'll do it in Thai time . 🤣🤣🤣🤣 Mr Egg said the same thing about learning Thai as well. Cheer . thanks for the vid.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thai time, love it

[@BRETT74022]

I stayed for 3 months in Pattaya after a couple of holidays there. The novelty does wear off with certain things. Returning home and going back to the mundane routines, bad weather and work etc are what makes you appreciate the trips to places like Thailand. I believe that even if you were to win the lottery and live out there like a footballer in his Playboy mansion… you would eventually get bored of that lifestyle.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Exactly mate I could not agree more

[@happycook6737]

Yes! Boredom is huge in the expat community. Especially if expats can't get a job due to visa restrictions. Plus developing country living has challenges.

[@ZeekmanEats]

Great video- this is very informational.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you

[@HELSSING1]

🤔don’t underestimate Aircone if you try to sleep…can be more than an issue😄Greets from 🇧🇪 Belgium👋

[@Buzzinpattaya]

gotcha

[@johnshores4745]

Getting dark everyday around 6pm takes some getting used to . If retiring i would suggest you don't do as a single person or you will find yourself everyday in bars looking for entertainment also remember treat your nights out as a treat not a norm (how many nights a week do you go out in your own country) . If your partners Thai get used to going to markets .

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Well said, yes you have to be disciplined

[@expo7112]

When getting involved with Thai birds dont forget you will be taking care of her family as well. That lot will cost you some fancy quid.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Exactly as you said

[@sickbuffalo9902]

Always go for orphans 👍

[@jglee6721]

@@sickbuffalo9902 lol

[@jomac3014]

Very good chat today Trevor..I would like to visit Thailand for a year or maybe longer not decided yet..I have tried to contact Darren at key visa a couple of times but sadly I have had no response

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thanks mate. I am unaware of why Darren has not replied, i know he is a very busy man. Email me your email address and I will ask him for you. [e-mail]

[@paulhartford]

Couple of things I struggle with are driving standards and the lack of availability of certain stuff (being an amazon addict)

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Driving lol

[@frankindabank]

Make thai friends, they don't disappear cause they live there and they are making it easier to get around with everything. Learn the language, so you are never bored. Try to make some money even if you don't need it, that earns you some respect, kills time and you can spend more. Learning Thai is a real pain (have to force myself to do it and I am just for holidays there), but if you want to live there you just have to do it. Otherwise you will always just be a kind of tourist. I am fully enjoying Thai time, it's super relaxing. You don't wait you just do your thing and when they arrive it's fine... you can also finish the things you are doing and don't have to stick to much to a schedule...

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Gotcha

[@OhMrJakey]

Couldn't agree more about learning to read Thai script. It does seem daunting at first but honestly you can learn about 80% (which is more than enough) of the thai alphabet in 2 or 3 weeks. Get your thai girlfriend to message you simple phrases in thai, as the days go by you will start to learn all the common words and sounds, and your brain will start reading it automatically. It really helps with learning the correct tones too

[@senianns9522]

If you intend to live here you MUST learn to read some of the language! It will also help you understand what is being said to you! When you can ask for things you need in Thai, then you will gain respect! Good post!

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you for sharing your experience

[@desrend]

You hit the nail on the head of why I would never live in Thailand with four out of five. But one thing I loved, my family and my firm could only get hold of me when I logged onto Facebook which to keep them happy was about 7am thai time, just loved the out of touch time, no cell phone for me. I am disappointed to see the English language skills of Thais have gone backwards in the last 10 yrs

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you for sharing your opinion I understand about connecting as you said

[@richardharper3397]

Stop putting yourself down Trev. I think your a lot smarter then you give yourself credit for.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you

[@DRock7977]

Trev is street smart.

[@rhodesvacationplan9583]

Nice explanation.I used to be coming full month or even twice per year in Thailand and always wondered how non pensioners make a living there without being married to Thai woman and such issues with visas

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Welcome my friend

[@wrren101]

I lived in Pattaya for 6 years with no problem but when I got to 65 my medical insurance got incredibly expensive and hard to get so I didn't have any. Sod's law kicked in and I got ill and couldn't afford the treatment in a Thai hospital so was forced to move back to the UK. So unless you can afford all the extra expenses of living in Thailand it's a gamble?

[@colincampbell378]

When you write 'incredibly expensive', what sort of sums are you talking...?

[@martypoll]

@@colincampbell378 He is from the UK where he is covered by national health care. If he was an American, particularly one without insurance, then nearly all health care in Thailand is less expensive.

[@colincampbell378]

@@martypoll , I've lived in Germany since 1973. My private health insurance is about 600 Euros, so are we talking that kind of money...?

[@wrren101]

@@colincampbell378 250,000 baht a year and I had to take it out before I was 65 and only lasted till I was 70. I don't think I could get it after 70? It would also be reviewed if I made a claim. The only place I could find any was the ex-pats club at the north end of Beach road. This was 10 years ago so don't know what it's like now?

[@martypoll]

@@colincampbell378 In a private insurance market the cost will depend on age and the amount of coverage. It will also probably exclude existing conditions. There is no average number to put on it.

[@emcdonald6966]

Hi Trevor, In reply to your comment about learning to read Thai, in order to speak Thai, may I share the flip side! friends of ours in the north of Isan both school teachers, Den is the principle of a large (300+ student) primary school and his wife teaches at a medium size (100 + student) different primary school. Den majored in english language, but struggles to put a few words of english together. However if you write it down, he can write a reply with relative ease. but his wife that is teaching english as one of the subjects can comunicate quite well in english. The point I am making is it all comes down practice and apply what you are learning. Also your point about being apart from family hit home hard on a trip some years ago when my mother took a turn and passed a few days after I arriving in Thailand, not that any thing would have been different if I was still in Australia, but there is always the "what if question" in the back of my mind. Cheers,

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you for your comment about learning to read and write tie. Yes I guess it is subjective down to each individual. I'm not often stuck on words but in the situation you described regarding your mum I really do feel for you and I'm sorry

[@emcdonald6966]

@@Buzzinpattaya Thanks Trev, with my mother passing, would have been the same outcome if I had been in Australia, but will live with the feeling of being so far away at such an important time. Another point with our Thai friends in north of Isan being none of the locals speak english so Den never had the need to practice speaking english. While we were in the Bueng Kan we had the rewarding experience of a few days at Den wife school so the kids had the opportunity to practice speaking english. Very relatable to yourself and the orphanage.

[@onepath5978]

Its Not just Thai time there the same in all of Asia, also when you say you have to be careful who you trust are you talking about Thai people or also westerners, Because I live in Australia now and find the older I get the more I don't trust many people who ever they are.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you for sharing

[@gotthesinglelife]

Thai time with friends no problem just another drink or what ever but waiting for someone to fix something in your condo then that seems to drag and takes most of your day depending on the appointment.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

When they fix things I think it's funny when they bring their family along

[@andersbergman7241]

Good chat Trev and👍

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thanks mate

[@jlynnburton9718]

Congrats On 44,000 Subs

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thank you so much

[@CJ-gn8qm]

I hear, I forget! I see, I remember! I do, I learn!

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Gotcha

[@seriousdoubt]

some day you have to talk about the Pattaya Flying Club...

[@Buzzinpattaya]

The weird thing about that club is right now it seems to have disappeared which is ironic considering the situation we're in around the world

[@seriousdoubt]

@@Buzzinpattaya you see ....restrictions save lives 😉

[@danielcunningham7117]

miss my thai wife been apart about 2 years now she says it as it is 😊

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Sorry mate

[@sidecar7714]

Interesting word: audibly

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Special mate lol

[@fredob43]

Some good points. Take friends you will find true friend if you don't live in a Tourist resort. I have found that by living in both a tourist place and out of it for many years I can tell you first hand. I lived in Pattaya for over 7 years when I first arrived. Finally it drove me out and decided to try up country. Since then haven't looked back. You asked if people struggled with anything. I can honestly say only in a Tourist resort. 1. Double pricing happens all the time in a Tourist resort. So if your not Thai you will pay and big time. You will also require lots more cash it you choose a tourist place. They are Great for a short time holiday but long term not the best place to live. Saying all of the above you will need to speak at least some Thai if you decide to live in the as they say the Boon docks. It'll take some time but there are nice people living all over Thailand once your in a group of friends in my case a few weeks, you won't look back. If you want a bit of fun you can always go to a tourist place. But if your like me only for a few days, after 2/3 days I cant wait to get out, back to the real Thailand.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Thanks mate

[@Ian4444four]

Today's placing is......a photo finish??

[@iomtilt]

👑 The Crown is yours Ian, well played 😁

[@Ian4444four]

@@iomtilt Thanks but so so close today

[@Ian4444four]

@@nickyboy. Thanks Nicky. Been a while since I found the top step. Will wear the gold with pride, especially with the world class competition

[@Buzzinpattaya]

👏👏 BOSH 👏👏

[@connorw808]

Ha I just seen someone I ain't seen for years walking along the road 👏🏻

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Hahaha

[@okbilly1]

Maybe a vlog and tips, with all the time available been bored, what are some strategies that you implemented that worked for you?

[@Buzzinpattaya]

I wish I was bored, I am flat out lol

[@thethrillofpattaya8404]

***Hi Trev... I've been there long stays 5 times now...next time May 4th '22 for a few weeks only though. One subject I haven't learned enough about is the LAWS! Basic stuff like...Cannibis (smoking)...casual drug use... Imports of autos...DUI..... after hours clubs (been to a couple in Bangkok but not Pattaya. And one I've not got a straight answer for is...Age of Consent! Thans Trev!

[@Buzzinpattaya]

gotcha mate, think that would have to be on another platform, not sure it would pass here

[@martypoll]

Drugs and DUI? Just don’t do it here in Thailand. Trev has warned about this often enough.

[@thethrillofpattaya8404]

@@martypoll Of course...I know that for sure! But cannabis is for sale now in a few shops in Pattaya and just wanted the real story on it. And I guess it's safe to assume the age of consent is 18...no?

[@martypoll]

@@thethrillofpattaya8404 The cannabis products available in Thailand must be

[@rhizomorph-music]

There is legal, government-sanctioned cannabis tincture for oral use available if you go through a doctor.

[@timbutler7020]

Don't overthink everything and just chill

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Indeed

[@senianns9522]

You often ask locals how they are by using, 'Sabaidee Mai?' Try using Bpen Nai Baang'? It's commonly used to ask 'How are you'! Comments please! Good post today! Common sense to many everyday issues! Keep Buzzin!

[@martypoll]

เป็นไงบ้าง is good but it is what you say if you are expecting a detailed answer such as a list of all the things that have happened to them recently. You have to be pretty good understanding Thai to understand the answer.

[@senianns9522]

@@martypoll Thanks Martin, I hear 'Sabai Dee' as a term that most Farangs know and the locals accept the term ' Are you comfortable' It works well. When I have used 'Bpen Ngai Baang' --usually with workers on site, the most common reply is 'Gor Dee'--'I'm good'! Or even: Chee wit koi dee gwa nee' --'Been better'! Yes, there's humor in the locals too!

[@Buzzinpattaya]

I would add that yes you are correct but likewise its relative to how well you know them as to what phrase you use

[@nightrider8908]

Very useful advice! However, you say Thailand/Pattaya is fantastic and wonderful, but you only mention things about it that seem to be more or less the exact opposite. What exactly is so fantastic about Thailand compared with other countries? In the most recent World Happiness Report, Thailand is No. 53 in the world. I see nothing fantastic in that.

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Happiness is what you make it and I love my life here and miss zero about the money grabbing UK. As for the stuff I share that's more about making sure people who come here have a great time.

[@nightrider8908]

@@Buzzinpattaya Fair enough! I'm glad you're enjoying yourself. Thais themselves don't seem to rave about Thailand at all, and I have never considred leading a retired life over there. I'm much better off in Finland, which has one of the best health care systems in the world.

[@jefftam18]

@@nightrider8908 Finland winter is horrible like almost all western country.

[@nightrider8908]

@@jefftam18 It's what you're used to. Finnish kids enjoy it tremendously when they can go skiing and skating in winter. Many feel sorry for children in hot countries who don't have that opportunity. However, I have taken a holiday in London in December and understand why some Londoners think winter is terrible in Finland. In England it's cold both indoors and outdoors in winter because the heating systems are no good and the houses aren't properly insulated. What little heat comes from gas boilers dissipated through the walls and windows. The temperature in my flat never goes below 23C.

[@martinraxyz]

Re the Thai time...I had the same problem with the lack of punctuality, while I lived in Trinidad (and Tobago), in the nineties...it drove me nuts!!! 😃

[@Buzzinpattaya]

Wow thank you for sharing