Retire in Thailand? Are Thailand Expats Outsiders?

Are you planning to retire in Thailand and become a Thailand expat? Whether it is Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket or Pattaya, there is an issue you need to know. Most American expats, and those from the UK, Australia, Canada and beyond, are quite happy, but some report feeling like an outsider. American expat Randy and his Thai girlfriend, Joy, talk about why this can happen and how to avoid it.
If you are going to retire in Thailand you want to avoid the mistakes others made going before you, and copy the successful mindsets, habits and lifestyle. Be a happy Thailand expat whether you are in Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Phuket...
I gave my daughter's website address incorrectly. It is HHpremium.com.
#thailand #retireinthailand #thailandexpat
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🔴 CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction
02:48 Is it the Thais? Or is it you?
03:19 Misinterpreting what Thais say and do
08:47 What is your face and attitude saying to Thais?
10:49 Do you speak Thai?
12:34 How to succeed if you don't speak Thai
12:50 Kaw toad. Poot pasa Thai mi di.
16:04 Get a Thai girlfriend/boyfriend
17:35 Sports
19:06 Randy's novel: The Girl Without a Face
19:41 Joy's thoughts on "Are Westerners Outsiders?"
21:18 Conclusion

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

📖 Read the first 50 pages of THE GIRL WITHOUT A FACE wordslingerpress.com/sneak-peek 🔴 SUBSCRIBE AND RING THE NOTIFICATION BELL 😊: www.youtube.com/@RetiredGlobalLife?sub_confirmation=1 Oops, I gave my daughter's website address incorrectly in the video. It is hhpremium.com

[@smichael061]

Thanks Randy and Joy. You’re the only channel that gets into the personal aspects of living in Thailand. Much more consideration of taking responsibility for your own mindset. Joy recommends learning Thai culture, I think that would make for a great series, from her perspective and Randy what you’ve learned and had to change to adapt to new culture.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Good idea. You are now an assistant producer here... (:

[@lopat4826]

I miss joy.. she bring sunshine to your videos

[@glendahill]

yes she does

[@edubnorcal4671]

Great video. While I have not lived in Thailand yet I did live in Shanghai for almost 5 years. Very similar as I think southeast Asia is all pretty similar. I loved my time in China and most of my expat friends felt the same way. I found that the expats that did not enjoy their experience was because they were applying western expectations and were not happy the locals did not accommodate them. I have visited often and moving to Thailand in a month so looking forward to utilizing my previous experience and the knowledge I have gained from watching videos from you and others.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Very nice of you. I'm sure Shanghai will have prepared you very well.

[@allenmiller5963]

It's always about mindset. You go anywhere with bad attitude you will most likely receive in kind. As I've said many times, Thailand isn't perfect but it's pretty close. Being a kind, decent human will take you far. And Randy I need a pair of those glasses mate, rose colored lenses like that are hard to come by 😂Cheers! Allen

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Great to hear from you, Allen and thanks!

[@scottgeen3062]

​@@RetiredGlobalLifeyour shows are great thank you hopeing to retire in Thailand one day but 58age waiting for pension 65age from Scott new Zealand

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

@@scottgeen3062 Thanks! Hope to see you here one day.

[@BLACKEYETHAI]

If you’re not Thai you should feel like an outsider in Thailand ! If they wanted you to feel different they would make the laws on buying houses and staying long term easier ! As a black man I feel more like a “ outsider “ in America where I have businesses and properties but for whites ( farang ) that would be a different outlook… I feel no discrimination living in Thailand! Good content and great seeing you speak Thai ! It amazes me how men come here and find a “ wife “ and don’t speak NON of the language or attempt to learn

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Hmm, I don't think you should feel like an outsider. Being an outsider is different than not being Thai. That we westerners will never be. But it is fine to want to be part of a community. Before we are too harsh about complaining about long term visas, we need to ask how our home country treats Thais. Mine, USA, will barely give any Thais a visa to visit much less live. Yet Thailand lets us do it almost no question, just hoops to jump through. Thanks for your great comment.

[@TIMOTHYPT1]

I’m half Asian and I feel like outsider I USA too. It’s become a country only certain race & gender feels accepted

[@BLACKEYETHAI]

@@TIMOTHYPT1 🙏🏽

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

@@TIMOTHYPT1 Sorry you are feeling that way. I think the same things I mentioned here to blend in would work in the USA. What state and region are you in? That can make a big difference. I think many areas are so multi-cultural that whites are actually the minority, but in other places non-whites and foreigners will stand out more. But even then if. you do the right things I think they will welcome you and enjoy your company and share their lives.

[@TIMOTHYPT1]

@@RetiredGlobalLife you are correct and I’m in Florida- not known for our acceptance of diversity. But I head to Thailand in 5 months for a 6 week trial run and maybe move there long term

[@RobFomenko]

As usual, great info on a much needed topic for me. I knew that I wanted to be integrated into the society as much as I could before coming permanently. I'm only going on my fifth week here so still in the honeymoon phase. If I can identify with much of what you say. I am enrolled in a Thai language school here in Bangkok and completed my third lesson today. At 66, I don't find it easy. The people in the class are much younger and are multilingual. We all know us Americans like to feel like we don't have to learn other languages, although I have taken stabs at Spanish before. I don't find Thai, particularly hard other than the fact that learning a new language is difficult in itself. But I'll keep slugging at it. My Thai girlfriend is a teacher, and is an invaluable help for me. I feel more confident living in this society with her. Although we don't live together full time yet. Not possible right now. I feel more comfortable around Thai people then I do around many expats that I encounter. It's going to take time though. But this is my new home. This is where I choose to live and I'm going to do everything I can to make it work. I skipped your video on why people leave because frankly I didn't want to watch it. As Arnold Schwarzenegger says in his book be useful, do not have a plan b. Make your plan A and stick with It. That's what I'm doing.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Always good to hear from you Rob and if you have a Thai GF you are already doing great. So helpful to have a Thai partner. The Why We Leave is not a negative video. It's telling people what mistakes not to make... What some do wrong, so we won't make the same mistake. Continued fun and success, Rob.

[@RobFomenko]

​@@RetiredGlobalLifeI will watch it on the next opportunity. thanks for making videos. it's my major form of entertainment.

[@jonhobson3592]

Good video again Randy , interesting topic 😊 I try to integrate into the community and respect religion here and often visit temples & try to explore new ones

[@SamyMrian-nj3zv]

Thank you,Randy,for taking the time and providing me with the requested information. Sam

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

My pleasure. Take care.

[@glendahill]

Great content and very thought provoking. I think the key thing to living in a different country is to always try to assimilate with the countrys culture as best you can, rather than the other way around. Great to see Joy. When you said you had exciting news, I immediately thought, 'ring on a certain finger'..... Randy, did you just hear me laugh out loud at your being accosted by beautiful Thai ladies once you had donned your new Ray Bans? Thai is a difficult language to learn I found, mainly because it's tonal. Well done Randy for getting to grips with it. As ever, looking forward to your next installment

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Yes, Glenda, I did hear you laughing and I was deeply, deeply hurt. (:

[@user-zj8of4cw5t]

This is one of my favorite videos you've shared, Randy. It gives excellent insight into that attitude, which is everything in life and acclimates in many ways, and of course, sports that we tend to think of, but you really brought this into another whole level of perspective. Hello Joy, I'm looking forward to you visiting again soon!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks for your very nice comment. Yes, you will see plenty of Joy.

[@Rafi-Tzur]

Excellent content, thanks🙏

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks so much. I hope. you share it with those who might like it.

[@jaclineheto8615]

Very nice to see you again on KZbin ! 🙏

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Did I go away? Haha.

[@jaclineheto8615]

@@RetiredGlobalLife You went to the States recently ? The last video was about the taxes... Do you know more ?

[@randyirvine5858]

Lovely temple for a video. Agree with you totally on learning Thai & smiling. A Thai gf certainly does help & finding one is when the fun begins. Your sunnies are timeless classic & remind me of the movie 'The Day The Earth Stood Still' with Michael Rennie😎

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Always nice and valuable comments from you, Randy! Take care.

[@dukewanders]

Another great video. Excellent advice, for traveling / migrating to any country as a foreigner / expat.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Very kind of you!

[@EL68775]

Seeing you as a couple, how you live and are happy, shows a lot about life in the country. Valuable vor viewers, who want to get a spiritual-picture of Thailand.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Very nice of you, thanks!

[@briandumont7272]

Learning the Thai language is up there on things I need to do. I just arrived on an elite visa (through your daughter who has been and continues to be amazing!) July 2nd, so outside a couple trips I am as newbee as it gets. Your videos have helped. Keep it up!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Hey, very nice of you, Brian, and yes, Hailey is amazing. So proud of my daughter in all aspects of her life.

[@keithdonaldson5573]

I live in Thailand part time, this is a great video. You make a lot of sense. You’re very articulate and it’s a good subject that you’re dealing with.🙏🏼

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Very nice of you, Keith. Thanks!

[@ianpatrick23]

Great video and love the new sunglasses!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Sorry, Ian, but I am too cool now to reply to you... (:

[@ianpatrick23]

@@RetiredGlobalLife 😂😂

[@ScottW777]

Very practical advice, thx!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

My pleasure! Thanks for commenting. Visit again please.

[@ErezBorowsky]

Thanks again for your experience.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks. Our pleasure!

[@mangostickyrice555]

Thumbs up 👍 Randy & Joy……I did not know that Hailey was your daughter that’s so cool 😎she hasn’t put out a video in a while

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks, Mango. I think she is too busy just running her business.

[@rodp4960]

Dear Randy, I'm Italian and I'm close to moving to Thailand with my future wife. I find that your videos are the most helpful and friendly. Thank you! 🙏 Rudy

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks for the nice words and I hope your visit or stay here is a great one.

[@panna6167]

Thank you for loving our Thailand, and we love you, too.❤❤❤❤❤

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

How kind of you to say that! I appreciate it. (:

[@cs_yt]

Solid advices again! AAMOF, I am following all of them to a "T". Also funny, the first words I learn from a language I don't speak is "Excuse me". I have so many stories about using it all around the world. IMO, it is all about recognizing that you are a guest, and do all possible to be a guest that a host would like to invite again. This attitude worked for me when I moved to other countries and I will bring it with me when I finally move to Thailand. Cheers!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks for a great comment. Yes, I said the same sentence when I first lived in France as a young man. It helped even there.

[@ChiangMaiThaiVideoVlog]

Great video, Randy. Even our cousin Henk wouldn't be able to bring it better.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks! Always nice to hear from another YTer.

[@nealweeks6632]

You guys are amazing.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

You are too nice, Neal. Thanks!

[@keithendricks836]

Very good advice. I’m from USA. I have a wife and family in law in PaSang. I’ve been visiting for 20 years. Now I’m retired and plan on spending more time in Thailand. I’ve been lucky my wife speaks English. Now I must learn to read and speak Thai in order to fit in better.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

I'm sure with your great attitude you will do fine Keith. Take care!

[@bradleygaudet9151]

I really enjoy your videos and I think you and Joy seem like a nice couple. I am a 49 year old Canadian who has travelled to Thailand many times and I plan on retiring there a few months a year when I turn 53 (i.e. when I can retire with 25 years of service from my government job in Canada). The insights you give in your videos are very helpful.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

That's very nice of you Bradley.

[@rebeccad8568]

Another great video presented in your fun style. It just blows my mind how anyone would want to move to Thailand with a little bit of sawadee ka, and a little bit of khob khun ka and maybe even some mai bpen rai and then expect to live happily ever after 😂😂 and I would take it one step further, don’t just learn to speak…learn to read! It takes your learning to a whole other level and it is amazing to be able to walk around and read everything! ฉันรักภาษาไทย สวยมาก ❤❤

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Yes, everyone tells me learning to read and write Thai is so helpful. I will one day hope to get there.

[@thomasckelly2901]

Thank you, Randy. I'll be moving to CM in August. Hope to see the two of you around.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

I hope so, Thomas, Joy and I seem to be meeting a lot of subscribers lately, even though it is the rainy season.

[@thomasckelly2901]

@@RetiredGlobalLife I'd like to use your daughter's visa services. If there's a way to communicate to me the name of the agency without jeopardizing her privacy, I'd appreciate it.

[@richardvaiciulis]

I was just there for 3 months . I didn't have a single problem with the the Thai people. I loved bangsaen because there wasn't alot of farangs. By the time I was leaving I wanted to be more like them in many regards. If I wanted to be around Americans I would have stayed there. I wasn't in NYC for 5 minutes until I was pissed off... excellent advice by the way.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks, Richard. Well ... I'd guess easy to get pissed off in NYC...

[@SamyMrian-nj3zv]

Thank you Randy for the best information you provided for your followers,would you please let me know if you can prepare a video about dental treatment in Thailand ?and if possible the cost for major dental work.Your attention to this matter is very much appreciated. Sam from Canada

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

I would say dentists can be as good as doctors/hospitals here. Maybe not uniform great quality but you can ask around and do research in the region you are in and find excellent dentists, many trained in the west, and speak very good English.

[@consulthai]

Great video Randy. You got a good sense of humour and you project that well with your body language which is universal. The Thais pick up on that and they're fun loving people . My advice would be to make the first approach with Thais to show them you're not stand offish. They'll probably wait for that as they wouldn't want to disturb you . That's the Thai etiquette. But once you initiate the social interaction they'll be happy to accept it. My Thai is pretty basic but I can ask and answer basic questions which you can learn quickly . Then you establish a relationship in going forward later. If you have a Thai girlfriend or wife you'll be readily accepted. With workman I tend to let my wife do the ground work and following that and with her together we come to request the job specs . But Thai time is more laid back than our time and we got to dumb down to that,otherwise you'll be frustrated all the time . On the other hand the labour charges are much less than back home. Better if you don't show your face until your better half negotiated the price. Otherwise there maybe a surcharge for an expat. Caveat emptor!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Yes, I've heard the same... hide around the corner until the price is fixed,, 555. Always great to hear from you, Tom. And I bet your Thai is much better than you let on. I find I rely on Joy so much, as it is so easy with a Thai speaking partner, that I tend to get lazy with studying. So I have to change that.

[@dalefill1976]

Zoey & I have been together for 2-1/2 years now & she finally told me about a year ago, "When I smile & nod or laugh when you're talking, I have no idea what you said." I think that was a turning point in our relationship & I realized it was up to me to help her to understand what I mean when we speak because I don't speak Thai. I'll be back in November for 5 months & she wants to take me to Chang Mai for a few days. Maybe we can run into each other.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Funny story. Hope to bump into you both in town.

[@roblacyclist1170]

Randy, I agree with you 100 percent. One must learn some Thai ( the more the better) to begin to be fully immersed in Thai society. Of course it can only help to have a Thai girlfriend and Thai family (as we do). Also, learning and respecting the Thai culture differences will go a long way in being accepted. Especially the ones about respecting Thai "saving face" and being generous. Also, last year at this time, I too, was able to cash in on the 70 percent off sale at the Maya Mall . I found some really good deals. I look forward to my return to Chiang Mai in October. Thanks for your video.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Great comment and good to hear from you, Rob. Hope you got something as cool as my sunglasses, 555.

[@user-po8fk6tl9s]

Hi Randy & Joy wish you the best after the retirement 🙏🙏🙏

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks so much!

[@thefuturefactory56]

Hi Randy I'm Australian with a Thai wife who divides our time between Australia and our house in Kaeng Khro, Chaiyaphum in Isan. Always enjoy your videos and agree with your summation on the topic. Of course I think that having a Thai speaking partner is the greatest asset when living there. When in Australia I usually do the talking and organizing and when in Thailand my wife takes over. As you no doubt know it also saves you money when your wife does the buying and you wait outside. As the old saying goes. "When in Rome (Thailand) do as the Roman's (Thais) do ( minus driving up the wrong side of the road as a short cut, etc). Will be going to Sukhothai for Loy Kratong, heading to Pai and then in Chiang Mai for 5/6 days in November and would love to meet both of you.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks for the nice message. You and your wife sound like the Thai versio of Joy and me. We plan to be in town in November so let us know.

[@MichelCorbeil-bd5ji]

Great video and really good advice i love yours guy's you are a really nice couple thanks again Randall and Joy and i have to say i saw a video it was i'm not sure in Lamala Thailand they a lot of rain and the down city was completely flooded about 5 feet af water and mud and what's crazy they are use to this because they live between 2 mountains and since they are very low the water accumulate all the time but the Thailand people were cleaning next day and the guys was filming know them and asking if they were ok and they were saying yes no problem the restaurant will be open in 2 days here in Canada the people will be crying and go crazy so these Thailand people impressed me so thank you Randy and Joy and wish both a nice day. ❤💥💥💥😃

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks, Michael, for your nice comment. Yes, the Thais get occasional floods in rainy season and just deal with it.

[@user-zj8of4cw5t]

I've read your book "The Girl Without a Face." I highly recommend it!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

You have made my day!!!! Thanks. I loved writing books but can't spend the time and energy any more. I think KZbin helps fill that creative void. Thanks again!

[@TheAkagai]

Some good info

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks. I did my best! ):

[@nixonbd53]

Great advice! I plan to retire in Thailand in 2025; after many visits there! 😎

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Best of luck! We wish you well and hope to see you here.

[@johnbell1374]

Hi...great videos...question..on a LTR visa...can I rent a condo in Chaing Mai & Bangkok at the same time? If so...which address do I report for 90 day report...or both? Thx.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

I'm pretty sure the LTR visa is special and waives 9o day reporting, only annually.

[@davedaniels4967]

I always enjoy your videos Randy. And Joy is so beautiful. Don't get to upset, I have a thai girlfriend named Joy as well. I'm making an honest observation. I hope to meet you guys sometime this year.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Dave, as long as your Joy is not my Joy, all good! Thanks for the compliment to the videos and to Joy.

[@jonhobson3592]

You cannot change being an outsider no , but you can try to integrate , show respect etc. respect the rules & be calm . It’s mindset too of course. I try to learn Thai too. If you have a Thai gf one can help each others language too , but miscommunication can occur too. And you are right , most ‘normal ‘ Thai ladies are somewhat shy by nature .one thing I do find tough though is the mood swings 😅 adapting to living here is key , you cannot no live like a ‘westerner’ here 😊

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Sounds like you and I agree on everything, Jon. But maybe we have a different view of the word outsider. We will always be foreigners, but a foreigner does not have to be an outsider. We can still be part of the community and not an outsider. Take care.

[@jonhobson3592]

@@RetiredGlobalLife yes 👍 💯 %

[@jonhobson3592]

@@RetiredGlobalLife part of the community , integrate yes , but still somehow feel somewhat of an outsider

[@ErikOdinsvej]

Regarding langue: For many years ago I was in Thailand with my thai girlfriend, and I walk around on my own in Bangkok, and I come to Wat pho temple, I enter and take picture of the place and was really impress of the Temple, at that time i did not know the name of the place so I ask in english what is the name of the Temple to a Tuc tuc driver - and he respond "mi lu" - so I write this down in my little book and when I come home to my gf, I tell her that I visit the Mi Lu Temple - and my gf have a good laughs and she told me that mi lu means "I don't know"

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Haha, funny. Yes often we all know less about our home regions than visitors.

[@MikaelOlofsson-rt5lb]

Thanks for a great video! I have a girlfriend living in the outskirts of Saraburi, she can speak English and I'm trying to learn Thai. In her neighborhood I've seen less than 5 other westerners since I started dating her just before Covid break out, same in the town, almost no farang, which I love! In her neighborhood almost nobody speaks any English at all so it's up to me to practice my very limited Thai and sometimes I say completely wrong but we laugh about it and they correct me, hopefully next time I do it better! So far I only been there totally about 10 months but I will retire there probably during next year so when I'm at home in Sweden I practice Thai to be as prepared as possible before my next visit in September, yes it's difficult but to learn basic Thai should be quite possible also for an old man like me! I always try to have a positive attitude and be nice and Thai's seem to like me maybe also because I try to speak a little Thai, I guess they respect me for that.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Great post. I'd think with that immersion you will learn super quickly, with a boost from all those educational KZbin videos.

[@mauimixer6040]

Hope to buy you two a coffee in Sept. Even if it's raining, cause I don't melt.😊

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Nice to hear from you, Maui. I'm set to visit my USA parents in Sept.

[@mauimixer6040]

@@RetiredGlobalLife 😕😔 how sad ! Well, I have only booked my 8/29-10/15 to bkk so far, but not the rest which includes CM, HH ,?, Baguio (because it's Cool)by way of Cebu, as main destinations, with side trips in between, so, we'll see. This is my final trip to deciding on more permanent move afterwards. Might have to be next time. When do you leave, beginning of the month?

[@glendahill]

on a side note and it's just come to me. We have a local Thai lady that has a takeaway service that she goes to different towns and villages. She is always 'tickeled pink' when I speak to her in my basic Thai. It goes a long way when you make the effort

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

There you go! Yes, Thais are much happier and impressed when we speak Thai then say, if we speak French in France (where they are likely thinking... "Oh please don't even try.")

[@LawrenceStevens01]

A personal question - does Joy travel with you in the USA and other trips you take outside Thailand? From what I understand it’s difficult for Thais to get a USA visa.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

She recently got her B1B2 visa and made her first trip to America to spend time with me there. I keep trying to get her to do a video about it.

[@gordon.Jacko1055]

That’s true you have to try to simulate and the best way to do that is to learn the local language 🤔

[@Dana-ie2bh]

Assimilate.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Yup, Gordon! Thanks for checking in.

[@gordon.Jacko1055]

@@Dana-ie2bh yes, maybe I should’ve used merge mingle fuse blend instead 🤔

[@Mummalez]

I agree on the language aspect. As you said we expect people who move to our countries to speak English so we need to respect the language of Thailand and at least learn even the basics.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks for the comment!

[@simon_illyan]

Hi. Thank you for the great advice. I'm wondering how to approach Thai people without offending them. We tend to be more open and easy to strike up a conversation with strangers. Is it acceptable in their culture? Also, how not to overwhelm them with attention?

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

No worries about striking up a conversation. Just remember they keep more distance from westerners, bow rather than hug or shake hands, normally.

[@christopherraley781]

Like the video also I have visited Thailand 9 times and I have a open mind and absorb the SE ASIA culture, food, religion , situational awareness Also different from western culture which is what I like, about different everything in Thailand 🇹🇭 hope to ret . Few months a year in Thailand age 60 and have Thai friends as well as EXpats , Also not drunk guy in bar complaining about how THAILAND NOT LIKE BACK home country I avoid those type of EXpats

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Sounds like you got it all figured out. Good for you and enjoy your next trip. Visit us again.

[@TIMOTHYPT1]

I’m curious. Your example of man doing kitchen project… how do you actually land on date/time he will be there? You can’t sit in your home everyday waiting for him because you have other things to do and he can show up when you’re not around

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

I think you are kind of missing the point, Timothy. It is an example. But even if not, that is the way it works with repairmen everywhere in the world. Set a date and home they come.

[@jeanclaude8556]

You look so cool in those glasses. I thought it was an A Lister Hollywood star for a second 😂 By the way, I'm still laughing at your bum gun remark 😂 hilarious. 😅😅

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thank you, Jean Claude, but I am now too cool to respond to comments. So....

[@jeanclaude8556]

@@RetiredGlobalLife 🤣❤

[@keepitrollin3977]

U will always be a outsider here this not your country.as long as u r spending money u will be ❤loved 😂i love thailand ❤️. Keep it rollin

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Well, respectfully IMO, the attitude that you are only liked if you are spending money is part of the problem with not being part of a community. That is the same as saying your kids only love you if you spoil them with expensive things. That is short term affection. The genuine kindness we show with the right people is more compelling than short term money. So it depends on who you are spending your time with and what they value from you.

[@Preceptor1111]

Nice sunnies. ❤

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks! And thanks for watching.

[@DanielFernandez-jv7jx]

Thank you so much for your wisdom and honesty! I'd be very curious to know how Thai in general respond to black people. I never got a racist vibe from Thais in my past visits, but I'm white and I'm not sure if Thais might color code people in some way.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

I think there is much less racial thinking in Thailand, much less than America for example. Thais in general all want white skin, odd but true, and you will see all lotions have "whitener" the opposite of western whites who lay in the sun for some color. But other than that oddity, I see no signs of racial prejudice.

[@Truth-of-the-matter]

As an American when I travel I try to be the best ambassador to my own country by respecting the people and their culture. While I may not enjoy certain foods or things such as pollution I try not to make those talking points. I've learned most Asian countries do not appreciate loud and aggressive foreigners (especially Americans) so I remain calm and understand I'm on a vacation so why I am rushing for things to happen? After visiting numerous Asian countries I have always met friendly locals who have been able to show me a little bit of their culture.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Great comment. Thanks!

[@joeusa8472]

My first visit to Thailand was in 1970 for a few days R&R in Bangkok. I decided to go back last year and spent a few days in Bangkok, Sakon Nakhon, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket, Phi Phi and Krabi. In September I will apply for my retirement visa in Hua Hin mainly because of the size of the city and I want to be next to the beaches.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Great. We like Hua Hin and did a video on it.

[@Dana-ie2bh]

What happened to the post mentioning that "Fitting In" taking precedent over individuality could be considered as "Simp" behavior? It seemed like a valid opinion to me.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

I have not see it yet. If it is gone, I did not remove it as I don't remove messages. Maybe it is here somewhere, or they deleted it themselves.

[@bloo4448]

I watch a few vloggers from Thailand and people that have been there many years are very happy, they have a lot of joy inside of them. Please can you speak about the politics there because politics is what is driving me away from where I live

[@mauimixer6040]

Since it's not your country, I would recommend you be very careful about saying Anything about Thai politics . Why would you want to get involved and end up picking a side ? It's Not your place, unless you're a Thai citizen. So many other enjoyable things to consider learning about. The politics is harder than the language. 😊

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Politics here are not good. Same problem in the USA, maybe most everywhere. Google the 112 law here. But the difference is in the USA I get furious. Here, I just accept it as the way things are and tell myself as a non-citizen I have no role.

[@mauimixer6040]

@@RetiredGlobalLife is that the one about anything negative about the king etc ?

[@mauimixer6040]

@@RetiredGlobalLife yep, I took a educated guess, then solved my curiosity 😉

[@jeh1333]

Just buy the tile pattern and the grout colour that you need and show the guy the pattern you want him to lay and monitor him at the start, praise him when he gets it right, then, let him get on with it.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Yeah, well, just an example. In real life... I'd do it myself. Love the DIY.

[@acerdan]

This was a good episode. Thank you so much for educating me on this subject. One question for you. I am Christian. How will that work there? Are there any Christian churches or groups?

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Yes, several in Chiang Mai so I assume the same elsewhere. They are usually very small, held in a home or small business place, not the big western churches you are used to. But a great way to meet people I'd think, as well as worship.

[@consulthai]

There are many Christian Churches in Thailand, there is a Catholic Cathedral on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in BKK, and dozens of Christians churches in Chiang Mai of many denominations . Missionaries were/are very busy here. Just google them.

[@acerdan]

@@RetiredGlobalLife yeah it would be a nice way to meet people. I don’t really mind how small or large they are. I’m just hoping it’s okay to be a Christian there.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

@@acerdan Thais seem to respect all religions. There is no "my religion is right" mentality as I saw in some people in the US.

[@acerdan]

@@RetiredGlobalLife that’s great. Thank you for your replies. Much appreciated. ❤️

[@bloo4448]

I immigrated to Canada and felt that way for a good few years, a mature person should know this would be the case……

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Sounds like you turned it around. Hope all is great for you there.

[@rdefacendis]

Your analysis might have paused on the admittedly awkward subject of expat profiling. There are those who plan meticulously, research the entire re-location exercise, make personal and professional connections prior to arrival and are financially secure (via assets or job skills). Then... well.. there is the other cohort... What I might refer to as the "unsuccessfuls"? This group with their chemical addictions, dysfunctional relationships, and dicey finances - just book their flight and stutter, I'll figure it out when I get there! If we could measure the staying power of each group, I think you'll find that clear-eyed, stable, sober (mostly) and financially secure individuals, might have a better chance of integrating in Thailand. Always exceptions on either side, of course.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Yes, completely true. The skirt chasers spending their time and money in bars tend to not last.

[@villagefarang]

I am not sure I agree with the rush to get a Thai girlfriend. I suppose you could get lucky but your ability to read people when you are new is lacking. You don’t want to get locked into something too soon. The kind of women who are attracted to the new guys who don’t speak any Thai, well let’s just say they can be problematic. If you rely on one individual to introduce you to Thailand, well, you may end up with a very distorted view depending on her background. Also relying too much on someone else will rob you of that feeling of accomplishment when you learn how to do things on your own and maybe it will make you a bit lazy. Learn the language, talk with lots of people, find activities, learn how to be self-reliant. Then when you meet someone you have more to offer and won’t be so needy. Your pool of potential friends and girlfriends will expand far beyond that very small demographic of Thai people who work with foreigners and rely on them to make a living. Then again, what do I know about living in Thailand?😎

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Not bad advice from you. I said get a GF, not rush to get one, 555. And a GF can be short term or forever, depending on how it goes. But yes, sometimes a bad decision can have consequences.

[@villagefarang]

@@RetiredGlobalLife You did seem to imply that a girlfriend was a quick fix and high priority but maybe you didn’t say rush.

[@rjbarrymore]

First: After hearing the end of your video explanation it is evident that Joy should have never given you the task of negotiating the tile job with a Thai person knowing full well that you don’t speak Thai and there is a good chance the person you are hiring to install the tile doesn’t speak English. Second: 
You agree on a day and time. He doesn’t show but you should not be surprised. So what happens when he shows up three days later and you are not home? Does he get his feelings hurt? Does he come back the next day or try to contact you to reschedule?

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Ah, I think you are overthinking it a bit... and the tile job was, as I said, an example. Sabi sabi. (:

[@siamiam4306]

I think Thailand is rigged against foreigners with too many hoops compared other options.Thailand offers benefits that can offset the negatives and that is a personal choice. For me personally, moving abroad and not knowing the local language is going to diminish a optimal experience. Each one can apply their own moral algebra how that factor is important. For that reason, among others, Thailand will be an annual visit.I'm fluent in Spanish and feel "in-the-game," and can go a butcher and have an understanding. If Thai was still an option, I'd be totally immersed for 18 months to lean the language. .......... I visited Wat Praising again and recently attended their Songran ceremony, which is real as you can get for Songkran. Looking forward to be blessed and return to Thailand next year. In the mean-time I'm settled for good in Florida ... with Costa Rica a cheap 3hr flight away with better beaches and more orderly system.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

I can understand your language issue. France is so much fun for me as I am pretty much fluent. Makes such a difference.

[@ddyeo503]

I personally think westerners need to speak and read the Thai language if they really want to retire and live there. Also having a Thai girlfriend or a Thai wife makes your time there very nice too. She can help with the hotels, taxi's, airports, the BTS, the MRT, and any type of traveling you might want to do there,,,,,,,,,,,,,

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Yes, writing Thai is very valuable. I admit I am only working on the verbal side so far.

[@WilliamFluery]

Well Randy? I think you missed an opportunity to play out your sunglasses delusion. You and/or Joy should have recruited some Thai women friends to “ooooouuu and ahhhhhhh” over you as you walked to the coffee shop. 😂

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Hey, I need you as our director for those good ideas!

[@jaclineheto8615]

🤔Is it an ego problem to admit you don't understand ? Strange because in Tibetan Buddhism we learn to work on the ego. 🤔

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

A question over my head, 555. (:

[@Dana-ie2bh]

You think Thai Animist Buddhism is the same as Tibetan Buddhism jaclineheto8615?

[@jaclineheto8615]

@@Dana-ie2bh I only know Tibetan Buddhism. I'm going to move in Thailand in few months time. I think Buddhism in Thaïland is Teravada Buddhism. Same in Vietnam. I'll have to understand the difference !

[@jaclineheto8615]

@@RetiredGlobalLife 555 = ah ah ah ? 🤣

[@Dana-ie2bh]

@@jaclineheto8615 one through ten. Nung, Som, Song, See, HA, Hoke, Get, Bad, Gow, Sip. The number 5 in Thai is phonetically pronounced "HA", therefore, 555 is HA Ha Ha.

[@dg6887]

All that follow the ego are outsiders

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

If you mean putting yourself and your desires first, then yes, it is hard to integrate with that attitude.

[@Androgen321]

Only attractive with the glasses?!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Haha, well, they are my crutch. The more of my face that is hidden, the better.

[@Dana-ie2bh]

Sabai, not Sabi.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Ah, it all depends on how you read it I suppose...

[@Dana-ie2bh]

@@RetiredGlobalLife Yes, you could also say Ollah, but it's spelled Hola, que tal?

[@Dana-ie2bh]

@@RetiredGlobalLife In English, do you spell the word "Thai" as Tie, or Thai?

[@lopat4826]

Thailand fight all the time what you talking about politeness.. they are passive aggressive too

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

If they fight, they are doing it outside my view. I rarely see it. But hey, I never said people here or anywhere don't have disagreements or get annoyed. But Thais seem to usually have more smiles than anywhere I've been.