One Month Living In THAILAND: Should I Stay Or Go?

Taking a look at my first month living in Thailand as a retired expat. After one month in Pattaya, am I ready to move home? Will I go back to the USA? Here's an update on my first month expenses living in Thailand and I also talk about some things on the horizon.
Thanks ‪@peteonretreat2023‬ for the tip on the Thai language flash cards. Make sure you all check out his channel too.
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===========================
00:00 Introduction
01:30 Biggest Expenses So Far
06:01 Why People Fail to Adapt
08:40 Disappointed
09:53 Would I Change Anything?

[@RetiringToAsia]

Looking forward to everything that comes. What questions do you have about moving to Thailand and living here?

[@IMadeOfClay]

After thinking it through, I don't think I will wait until I'm 45 years old (in 2027) to move to Thailand on a 5 year Elite visa. I will sell my business within a year and be done with it. I am in a business with another person and she simply doesn't pull her weight and I am fed up with her. Life is too short. Thailand, here I come. Now I need to start researching how the hell to make the move and how to stay in Thailand while I'm under 50. Thanks for the videos. They are really helpful.

[@RetiringToAsia]

I don't you'll regret getting here sooner. Elite is still an option. Look at all the visa options Thailand offers. The year will fly by, and you'll be here before you know it.

[@jamesmcdonough2726]

You are the most impressive expat I've seen on this type of video,you prepared so well so you had a soft landing in Thailand,I look forward to watching further videosThanks

[@RetiringToAsia]

That's such a great compliment! Thank you and thanks for watching.

[@Whatasale]

Awesome video! Look forward to your journey as I am hopefully going to follow some of you advice in a couple of years till my retirement! Well wishes on your journey from Corpus Christi, Texas!

[@RetiringToAsia]

Good luck on your journey. Thanks for watching.

[@peteonretreat2023]

Great video! Seems like you’re fitting right in here. Thanks for the shoutout too. KZbin notified me that you mentioned me. 😊

[@RetiringToAsia]

Feeling great about the move. Your info has been super helpful. Thank you. Maybe we can catch up some time.

[@garythickins7615]

Hey man, absolutely loving the channel. Just found it and im binge watching. I come from the same career background and after 26yrs im birnt out. Love the positivity and no bs info.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thanks so much!

[@CryptoSteve007]

From one retired Cop to another, welcome to the Kingdom brother. Enjoy!

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thanks. I'm loving the change!

[@marko5937]

Happy to hear everything is working out well! Enjoying your videos - nicely done.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thank you!

[@lessharkboy]

Great video and message, I've enjoyed watching your journey and look forward to the monthly budget video 😎

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thanks for watching! I appreciate it.

[@rsanders1569]

I'm happy for you man. Great to see your first month.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thank you. More to come!

[@DannyVega-DanielHall4Freedom]

Okay I am very glad I found you here this morning. Right now I am in Tampa, Florida. I'm planning to be in Thailand sometime in June. So seeing you go through these early steps is great.

[@RetiringToAsia]

I'm glad you found it too! Hope it helps. Thanks for watching.

[@rlwings]

I love this video. Very insightful, thanks.

[@RetiringToAsia]

I'm very glad to hear it. What made you enjoy it so much?

[@rlwings]

@@RetiringToAsia I liked the part about angry people not willing to accept a new way of being. You were right on about letting go of the old and letting the new happen.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Great. Thank you.

[@Ulbre]

Well done buddy....January 8th 1984 I first came to Thailand and I've kept coming back ever since and moved here forever in 2006. No advice to give you because you are literally living the life and making all your own choices...all of which seem great......I am always totally wrapped to see anyone come to this wonderful land and love it and appreciate and not whine about stupid stuff. Well done mate, cheers from Chiang Mai

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thanks so much. I appreciate the kind words.

[@yayam2136]

❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@pranktok]

Just found your channel and sub’d. Great job on your videos! My house is going up for sale next week, so I’ll be right behind you in moving to Thailand. Super impressed that you were able to get all of your belongings into 3 (and d an emergency 4th) bags. I’m actually looking forward to not having any belongings and no payments other than the bare basics. Let’s meet up when I get there, I’ll be following your channel and let you know when I arrive. Hopefully, six months, but depends on how quickly the house sells. Take care! -Ross

[@RetiringToAsia]

It's an amazing feeling to get on that plane. See you when you get here. Thanks for watching!

[@harry-xo7ue]

Great video and content. Nice ND easy to watch. Good style

[@RetiringToAsia]

Glad you enjoyed! Thank you.

[@harry-xo7ue]

@@RetiringToAsia I look forward to watching your adventure. I am planning to do the same in 1year so appreciate you sharing your experience !

[@NeilB69]

Just subscribed awesome video. I am planning on retiring there (Hua Hin ) this year. Lovin ya work mate

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thanks so much! Hua Hin is on my list of places to check out later this year. See you there soon.

[@bijanbayne3259]

When my lease is up I might look for condos in Hua Hin. Been there about 5 X, and love its pace and beach

[@RakeTable]

Great Video. Best of Luck!

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thanks!

[@georgenewmaninthailand2495]

Nice one mate👍🇹🇭

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thanks 👍I appreciate you watching.

[@Booracay]

I have to admit that I admire you for doing what you have done. Leaving at the age you did, I would not have been prepared for that. It is nice to hear what your expenses are, and an idea of your income. I wish you luck in your endeavors. Boost your income with options.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thank you

[@2kkto2]

Well spoken,,, learning the language will also provide you an insight into the culture.... in addition to having real conversations. But it does take time.

[@RetiringToAsia]

I'm committed to learning and I enjoy it. Give me a few months and I'll try a few words in a video...maybe.

[@2kkto2]

@@RetiringToAsia I spent near 20 years living in a Thai village in Central Thailand. I learned through immersion. The English word 'serious' is readily used and understood in Thai language - the interesting cultural point is that there is no positive connotation for the word.

[@robertgrizzard5056]

Congratulations brother 👏 I'm gonna need to come visit there soon!

[@RetiringToAsia]

Waiting on you

[@johnshores6061]

This is the first video you have made that I have seen and I applaud you on your attitude . Thai driving really used to bug me and as time goes by I find myself driving the wrong way down a highway because I don't want to travel the extra 5 kms to the u turn . I have become less angry and more relaxed about everything Thai . Flashcards are a great way to learn and something I hadn't thought about . Tnx for to tip and refreshing attitude

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thank you for the incredible compliments and for watching. I hope you stick with me. I'm sure I'll get used to the wrong way and sidewalk driving one of these days. 🤣

[@yayam2136]

❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@ahmadazhariawang3051]

Well said bro..Wise mentality

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thank you very much.

[@johnflynn4923]

Looking forward to getting back to Jomtien in March, first time back since 2019. I hope some big family hasn't moved into my condo in my absence 😆 Good honest info on the locals and their culture, have always found them very pleasant.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Welcome back. Thanks for watching.

[@shaun7638]

Your videos are relaxing,i can tell you are s respectful and easy going guy who does not drink himself in to oblivion..

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thank you.

[@Sheeeerkhan]

Got yourself a new subscriber 👍🏻🙏🏻🙂☀️

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thank you. Happy to have you!

[@mangostickyrice555]

Thumbs up 👍 Michael

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thank you!

[@marcp108]

Lazarda js the best. Make sure you pay up front and hopefully you condo has a drop spot for parcels. The problem with the drivers is that they can show up at any time with only a minutes notice. Wouldn't have bothered with the beach chair. Make friends with the vendors on the beach and buy a beer in the late afternoon and they will let you sit there for free. Getting a license is interesting and will take two days (not full days) and will cost you B142.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Yeah, Lazada has been good. Thanks for watching.

[@brooklynnavyvet9543]

If you see any disabled Americans that are in wheelchairs visiting or living there, see if you can get them to do an interview. Would love to hear their experiences. Want to visit there in a couple of years

[@RetiringToAsia]

I'll see what I can do. Thanks for watching.

[@BillonBass]

Welcome to Thailand from Hua Hin! Always nice to see a fellow American enjoying this amazing country. Been here a few years now with my Thai wife of 13 years who is now expecting our first child! After raising one daughter in the U.S. I plan to raise this one here and have no intentions of going back to the U.S. except for short visits once a year to see family. What I think you will find as time goes on is that expenses here will start to sneak up on you over time. Also you really want to avoid that 7/11 diet. Not healthy and so many other healthy and affordable options for you here. I’d also advise against riding a motorbike here. Incredibly dangerous and I’ve already lost several friends here to accidents. It’s not if, it’s when. Grab or Bolt are very cheap options. We actually employ a full time driver as I’ll never buy a car or drive myself here.. Anyway we are considering buying a getaway condo in Jomtien and checking out that area. I’ve heard Pattaya has cleaned itself up a bit. Never actually been there in all the years we’ve been coming here. Good luck to you!

[@RetiringToAsia]

Congratulations, and thanks for watching.

[@manzahalem8845]

Nicely done, Michael. New Subscriber for you.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Wow thank you. I appreciate it!

[@davidgray5530]

Learning to do your videos without doing selfies. You can narrate as you are walking. We like looking at the view, the beach, etc, not your face all the time. Other than that, you have a good message and good points.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Dang, did you just call me ugly? 😂 Seriously, thanks for the feedback and thanks for watching.

[@davidgray5530]

LOL! No, I'm just saying I think others as well as myself would like to more the scenery around you as you narrate.

[@WilliamFluery]

You are not ugly…any face is less interesting than action shots…except a beautiful Thai woman.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Hahaha I was wondering where you were. Hadn't seen a comment yet. 😂

[@user-dn7oo3sb1p]

I've made that same comment regarding other folks' videos, so (please) don't take it personally!! I've said, "We already know what *you* look like, but would love to see what you are seeing! Please turn the camera more on the views, as you narrate."

[@Renovegas6109]

I'm in chang mi kfx delivered for 6 bucks. Be 20 in the states

[@RetiringToAsia]

Enjoy! Thanks for watching.

[@_Alfa.Bravo_]

"The big luck loves little things" Hope you find what you are looking for

[@RetiringToAsia]

I have, thanks.

[@nelsonsack2694]

Interesting video. I would be interested in your take on the Philippines .

[@RetiringToAsia]

Haven't been yet.

[@palidamook1767]

สวัสดีค่ะ🙏ยินดีต้อนรับค่ะ

[@CJINPARADISE]

What type of passive are you living on? If that is alright to ask. Very infored video

[@RetiringToAsia]

Do you mean passive income? I have several videos that speak about my income streams. Thanks for watching.

[@richiemochi]

Curious, have you had any problems with banking and accessing your bank online from Thailand? Did you figure out what was your best method to gain the 2 authentication?

[@RetiringToAsia]

I actually have a video about that. Watch Three things to do video.

[@risarwhite]

Wow! Where did the time go? So happy for you! A positive attitude goes a long way when visiting and/or living overseas. One question, do you pay your bills online or do you have to pay in person? Keep enjoying!

[@RetiringToAsia]

It sure does! Depends on a few things, but most can be paid by scanning a QR code or auto pay from the bank. My water bill is paid in person at the condo office. My bank app didn't want to scan the electricity bill, so I paid that at the 7-11 right out front. Yep, you can pay bills at 7-11 here.

[@risarwhite]

@@RetiringToAsia my daughter and I frequently travel East Asia and are big fans of 7-11. One stop shops! The 7-11 stores we visited in Tokyo have full meals you can purchase (discounted after 6pm) and the clerks will heat them up for you. The store we visited in Hong Kong had a lunch counter. Keep sharing your enjoyment!

[@RetiringToAsia]

You guys have to put Thailand on the list

[@risarwhite]

@@RetiringToAsia My daughter traveled with a friend there last summer. She enjoyed it, even though it was hot as hades. Now it is my turn 😀.

[@pryingi]

What’s your Visa situation? There is a big expense for visa runs. Maybe your finances allow for a 2-3 month run. Easier if you have money.

[@RetiringToAsia]

I'm on a multiple entry retirement visa so no runs needed for me but yes, if you're playing the short term visa game, that would be an added expense.

[@pryingi]

@@RetiringToAsia thanks for your response. I just don’t have the 800k bht to park in a Thai bank. I’m over 50 but Tahiti 5-6 years away from drawing retirement SS (if it’s still there by then) Again, thanks 🙏🏻 for your response.

[@pryingi]

BTW, it’s not a Visa game but a reality for some of us. lol 😂

[@user-sk1ih2jj7m]

Would you recommend cancelling Us cell contract and selling phone. Then getting new phone/plan in Thailand and using whats app or equivalent for calls to other countries?

[@RetiringToAsia]

Watch my video, "Do These 3 Things Before Moving"

[@claudeac2610]

Hey I just discovered your video and my condo is right behind you in your sign-off. I'm an American and just moved here last month. Hope to see you around and maybe have a beer or a coffee and share experiences.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Hello neighbor. Shoot me an email and we can connect.

[@roymoxley2587]

Been here over 1 year only thing I don’t like is air quality.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Can be a bummer. Thanks for watching.

[@tomriddle6968]

Yes, it all seems wonderful. Is there any chance a devout Catholic can find a community of believers in this Buddhist country?

[@RetiringToAsia]

There are houses of worship for many beliefs here.

[@PartyCodeBand]

Let us know how you feel after the burn pollution starts.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Been here for that and still moved.

[@4WDJeepDriver]

Paying your rent in advance is a common scam when working with condo agents. Be careful. An agent will convince his "clients" to all pay in advance tol get a discount, then they up and vanish with all the money that was supposed to go to the condo owners. You will be left on the hook to still pay rent at the original price.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Good tip, thanks. I asked for the option and used one of the larger real estate companies, so I felt safe with it. It's definitely something to be aware of.

[@hump1953]

I’m 71 years old, been to Thailand three times…I’m in good health and have good finances…am I too old? What place do you recommend to retire to in Thailand?

[@RetiringToAsia]

Never too old. Find the place you love.

[@JettMalone]

@hump1953 you should go again! moving, the only problem could be getting the required health insurance. you have to start it before age 75. move!

[@hump1953]

@@JettMaloneprobably have enough money to self insure unless disaster strikes

[@JettMalone]

some visas in thailand will require insurance so look for the cheapest plan if needed in your case.@@hump1953

[@RetiringToAsia]

Research your Visas. Some have mandatory insurance requirements for Retirees.

[@UzziyahMCohen]

I loved this video! Me and my wife plan to move to Pattaya soon. How can we contact you? - Uzi Cohan

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed it. You can email me at [e-mail]

[@lkabong5529]

Hey Michael, new sub here! (Bryan) I'm also a fan of Pete on Retreat, at least I think thats who you mentioned. I always like to get everyone's take on settling down in Pattaya/Jomtien so I'll be following along. I just turned 65 and moved to Thailand 2 months ago. I'm currently doing a $240/monthly hotel room rental in Jomtien, close to immigration and about 120 yards from the beach. My hope is to eventually get a 6 month condo rental in Jomtien. Do you think there'd be an advantage to waiting for slow season, March or April? Maybe a lower price or possibly a better selection of condos. What's your opinion on getting an agent? Or even a lawyer to look at the paperwork? It's probably to late to tell you that I was just checking out beach chairs at Big C's in Central Marina. Sorry for all the questions 😂 and good luck with your channel.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Hey Bryan, thanks for subscribing. Never apologize for questions. Prices are lower after high season (3000/mo on mine) but maybe not as much on just 6 month lease. I saw chairs in Bigger C but not quite what I wanted. I don't think you need a lawyer but I did use an agent to help me find places that were actually available and for a little higher level of trust (just my preference) I can certainly refer you to a couple when you're ready to start looking.

[@lkabong5529]

Yeah, I didn't really like the chair selection there either. 😅 Ive looked at Lazada for item's like Levi's jean shorts and wasn't happy with what they had. So I'm guessing that you haven't tried shopping with Amazon at all? From my little bit of research it looks like I should be able to but I'm looking for someone that's actually done it.Thanks for the quick response and info👍

[@RetiringToAsia]

You can use Amazon some here. Once you add your Thailand address as the shipping address it will show products that can be shipped here and they'll include estimated import taxes. If actual taxes and fees are lower, they will refund the difference.

[@lkabong5529]

​@RetiringToAsia man that's encouraging, I'll keep looking into it👍

[@bijanbayne3259]

Four months for me in Jomtien

[@RetiringToAsia]

Congratulations. Hope you're enjoying it as much as I am. Thanks for watching.

[@paulbucklebuckle4921]

Respectfully , I'm not trolling but what are you eating that crap from the 7 11 in Thailand for ? I just had chicken noodle soup , fresh made , lovley .

[@RetiringToAsia]

Hahaha, sometimes it's just all I want for lunch or a snack. I love all Thai food.

[@searchersearcher8286]

What are doing for health insurance?

[@RetiringToAsia]

There are many options here. It's not hard to find a plan that suits your needs and budget.

[@PaulBell-gx9ql]

2 different worlds

[@RetiringToAsia]

Very much so. Quite the improvement for me. Thanks for watching.

[@gregsmitz6310]

Why did you choose Pattaya of all places.

[@RetiringToAsia]

I'm on the far end of Jomtien where it's very different from Pattaya. There's a video or two I made about choosing my country and condo.

[@Paul_R1206]

Soi 6??? Also, are you getting a retirement O visa or work visa? Seems like anything you do on KZbin now and getting paid you'll need a work visa. They're tightening down on that from what I've been reading.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Sorry, what's the Soi 6 question? It's up in Central Pattaya (20 minutes depending on traffic) I'm not into the bar scene.

[@Paul_R1206]

@@RetiringToAsia Ok. Wondered if you were there.

[@RetiringToAsia]

I think I walked it at noon once went I was up at the mall. I should probably do a walking tour for folks who are interested.

[@Paul_R1206]

@@RetiringToAsia You never said which visa you’re getting.

[@RetiringToAsia]

I'm currently OA. The tax stuff is still up in the air, but for now, I haven't met the monetization criteria for KZbin so I'm not making anything from these videos. Time will tell for all of those.

[@pranktok]

Wanted to buy you a few coffees for the week. -Ross

[@RetiringToAsia]

That's so kind. Thank you very much.

[@freerange6739]

Living in a Sauna 24 hours a day.

[@RetiringToAsia]

There's almost ALWAYS a nice breeze blowing. I often sit with the balcony doors open in my condo and don't even turn on a fan, let alone the AC. That said, Thailand is often hot and humid, so if that's not you're thing, you're looking in the wrong place. Thanks for watching.

[@davidkennedy8929]

Are you living on a small budget?

[@davidkennedy8929]

Following up, what I meant was are you living within a pension or other income?

[@RetiringToAsia]

Great question, thanks. Yes, I am, by choice. I enjoy a quiet and simple life. I did before I moved here. My target is to be 1000-1500 USD per month. I'll be doing a video soon detailing my living expenses.

[@davidkennedy8929]

@@RetiringToAsia Thank you, wasn’t being nosey but just curious as to how you are going to fund living in a foreign country! Good luck to you.

[@_Alfa.Bravo_]

@@davidkennedy8929 ... average income in Thailand is ap 300,-$ a month ...

[@andrewoakley4957]

Like your style, I've subbed. I know that you are in jomtien/na jomtien are you happy to say which condominium you are living in? I quite like the idea of being a bit removed from the busyness, I do like around soi 7 and 9 but you're obviously further down beach road and is there more of an Eastern block type population there? 😊

[@jurtsi2930]

Chips not brekfast😊 not eweng potato and gatoring?😂 Eat healthy! Local...

[@RetiringToAsia]

Hahaha it was a snack. Thanks for watching.

[@frankmazzie4855]

EVERYBODY CLAP....

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thanks and thanks for watching.

[@Deneri1234]

Hi where is your condo

[@RetiringToAsia]

I'm in Jomtien. I have a tour of my actual condo in another video.

[@Deneri1234]

@@RetiringToAsia that’s where we stay surf beach hotel on the beach road soi seven

[@Deneri1234]

@@RetiringToAsiawill look at your condo tour 👍

[@Deneri1234]

@@RetiringToAsiawill look to see if i can find your video about your condo has we want to retire out there six months at a time to miss Uk winters

[@RetiringToAsia]

Let me know if you can't find it. Thanks.

[@scottgeen3062]

Hi would 20million baht and pension last me at least ten years living in Thailand like to live in jomieten thank you from Scott new Zealand

[@RetiringToAsia]

That all depends on the standard of living you choose and how you spend it. Life can be as expensive as you make it.

[@scottgeen3062]

@@RetiringToAsia thank you for your advice from Scott new Zealand

[@scottgeen3062]

@@RetiringToAsia is it easy to get retirement visa and open bank account in Thailand

[@RetiringToAsia]

Absolutely. Can do it on your own or with the assistance of an agent. If you would like an agent recommendation, email me at [e-mail] and I'll be happy to give you mine.

[@scottgeen3062]

@@RetiringToAsia thank you for your advice stay safe enjoy your video from Scott new Zealand

[@AdamKidd1972]

I walked in the darkness unafraid unlike the rest. Whatever life throws at me I will ace the test. I will find my joy escaping the west. Overseas I will have the chance to become my best. Never let others control you living on bended knee. Do whatever it takes to set yourself free. In another country you can create a new life. You can even find yourself a wonderful wife. Walk your path always doing what is right. Never giving up on chasing your light.

[@RetiringToAsia]

Well said, sir. Enjoy all that comes your way. Thanks for watching.

[@michaelbyrne5469]

COOL !

[@kimberlybrent2850]

Since you mentioned “A wife” what about finding a male companion for women? I don’t see anything on that

[@yayam2136]

❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@tka1528]

How much does it cost to have a girlfriend??

[@RetiringToAsia]

Comments like these will get you blocked on my channel.

[@chrisjuricichxl5]

@@RetiringToAsia ahh...you're opening up a ministry there? All kidding aside, if you're planning to make this be a PG rated video, you'd better make it clear because let's face it--one of the most common reasons to move to Thailand is...well, you know. I'll drop in on occasion to see if you have any insights into living there that haven't been presented a thousand times before in a thousand other expat-lives-in-Thailand video. FWIW, I dont go to Thailand for 'that'--I'm married, I like the culture and the food...

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thanks. I've mentioned it in other videos and have added it to the channel guidelines. Plus I think that comment makes it pretty clear...though some people NEVER get it...so, one more time for everyone: I will not tolerate derogatory or hateful comments here. People can have a contrary opinion and express it ,but if they lack the vocabulary, skill or moral compass to be able to express it in ways that aren't ugly and hateful, well, they'll have to post in their Facebook groups cause they'll get banned here. My house, my rules boys and girls. Play nice or leave.

[@DavidHendry-lb3nk]

You will do fine ive lived here 13 yrs am from the uk one thing i would advise buy a motorcycle dont rent i have a car and motorcycle there not maintained that well if you rent

[@RetiringToAsia]

Thank for watching. I'm renting until I know what kind and size I want and until I decide where I'll put down roots. Dont want to hassle with moving or selling a bike if I don't stay around Jomtien. I appreciate the info.

[@DavidHendry-lb3nk]

@@RetiringToAsia jomtien is a great location am in the north east at the moment am a university lecturer I holiday in jomtien with my family each yr I will be back there April