Why I left the USA to retire in Thailand. My expat life in Chiang Mai 2024.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks for watching and we hope you will subscribe and become a friend of the channel (and ring the notification bell to get alerted about new videos: www.youtube.com/@RetiredGlobalLife?sub_confirmation=1 Another video you might like: 5 reasons why expats and foreigners give up and leave Thailand. Don't let these happen to you. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gYHJaHmGgZqAepY And about the Real Cost of Living in Thaiiland (particularly in Chiang Mai) kzbin.info/www/bejne/lXqYZ6Odra9gmJY

[@thaifroggy69]

I agree totally I'm 65 and on my way to retire there soon.My Lao wife and my home is built already in Vientiane Laos across border of Nong Khai Northern Thailand.

[@njosborne5540]

Randy, you touched on several things I relate to. I have a question. Do you know of any places in Chiang Mai that carry size 13 U.S. athletic shoes? My current pair are falling apart prematurely. Thank you.

[@xavierkoolat6926]

Oh, wow. I kept thinking that I was watching a video that was made from my own private thoughts about what's wrong with the world, especially the USA where I live. I've been vacillating between choosing either Thailand or The Philippine Islands. My reasons for liking Thailand were the same as yours: food and healthcare. Another reason is the English language is a consideration. And to a lesser degree, religion could be a minor problem. Anyways, thanks for a great insight into possibilities for me. 🙂

[@latinisaranbkoon7289]

I would like to write a letter or email both of you if possible.

[@latinisaranbkoon7289]

This is an opportunity for me to get to know both of you if it’s ok I have a few things to get together before I move there. I’m very excited to have seen your videos.

[@allinallbueittker8949]

Excellent video. My own words exactly. I am female, a recent widow of 85 years. Born in Europe, then moved with my husband to the US, where we lived for 50 years and raised a family. 16 years ago, we moved to and retired in Hua Hin. We came to Thailand for a change of scenery and adventure. We had decided to 1) buy a house, 2) learn the Thai language, 3) mix with locals right away. We sold everything in the US and became "Thai" in every aspect. If such a decision is made, the picture is clear: adopt Thai customs, appreciate Thai culture, make every effort to become a friend to the locals. Thai life is truly amazing. Now I am 100% integrated, and I have never been happier.❤😅

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

What an amazing post! You are the perfect expat! Thanks for the comment.

[@user-hm2vs3zf1j]

I'm a 67 year old retired American 🇺🇸 living in a high rise on the beach in Hua Hin Best decision of my life!!!!!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Good for you man. Congrats.

[@nnbbbb158]

How is Hua Hin???? It's on my short list with Chiang Mai and Da Nang Vietnam. Coming out there next year for a month to visit each place!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

@@nnbbbb158 I like it here. Not too big and the beach. Check out our Hua Hin video.

[@danielbianchi3479]

The difference in crime in thailand versus america is a no brainer! I have been here over 12 years , used to go out at night! Never once have I had a problem! Try that in america?❤❤❤

[@Hypertrick]

Your videos are way more precise and more helpful than what you typically will find, no bs, very much appreciated!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Nice compliment. I'll take it!

[@dlhanson51]

I am 73 in 2 weeks - and I look forward to a change also.

[@ct3408]

I’m happy for you. You deserve it and I hope this new chapter will be tremendous for you

[@zokitchvlog]

Congrats 🎉

[@bertimus7031]

I am also 73 in May and i live in Pattaya.

[@Tony-eb5kh]

I’am 60. Hope this helps 😅

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Good luck!

[@craigellis8354]

Dude Spot on I'm single, have a daughter & son in law & 2 grandchildren I cannot put my life inside their circle I shouldn't depend on them for my entertainment or seek their help as I grow old Worked on the railroad as an engineer for 30 years Full pension will allow me to travel My choice is Malaysia Thailand is 2nd So I'm off on that new adventure & next chapter Be safe on your travels & experience

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Hey, good for you! Comment again and tell me where you settled in Malaysia and how you like it, or if you choose Thailand.

[@BIueDreamm]

As a Singaporean. I personally choose to retire in Thailand Bangkok instead of Malaysia.

[@yanzi1291]

​@@BIueDreammWhy?

[@BIueDreamm]

@@yanzi1291 I love msia food. Don’t get me wrong. I love msia but it is way more dangerous than Thailand. Just my personal experiences and opinions. So I picked Thailand over msia. Would love to of course live in msia as cars and houses prices are so affordable compared to sg and Thailand (300% car import tax).

[@darryl.c7972]

Lived in CA from 1987-2017, [San Diego] retired @52 and now 7 years in Chiang Mai! San Sai..everything you said is true!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks, Darryl. Very glad to see your message.

[@Richard.Cabeza]

Many people would love to live in San Diego. What about Thailand makes it so appealing to you. Short answer is ok.

[@riverat7558]

That's weird. I just saw a video that said the air quality in Chiang Mai is horrible it will actually shorten your life

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

@@riverat7558 Chiang Mai does have terrible air quality during the burning season, usually Feb/March/April, so many of us leave then. I talk about it often but not every time.

[@user-hm2vs3zf1j]

You'd like Hua Hin so much more than Chang Mai 🥳

[@randyirvine5858]

Hi Randy, great to hear your positivity to retiring to Thailand. I too found Thailand was like being a kid again. All the little things are cherished. People smile, acknowledge you & it always makes you happy. Your observations are spot on. Hope you & Joy had a great Songkran. Cheers🙏

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks, Randy! I saw your name in the comments in a fellow YTer I sometimes watch, but I can't remember who at the moment. Glad to see you out there.

[@randyirvine5858]

​​​@@RetiredGlobalLifeWas it JTISH? My comment on his channel received 17,000 likes & 285 commented back👍

[@Anomalyy666]

​@RetiredGlobalLife how do you live in thailand without a retirement program?

[@Discovery-Dean]

Spot on! I'm 60, recently retired, and have been to Chiang Mai a couple of times. Everything you explained are what motivated me to purchase a one way ticket for later this summer. Thanks for another great video. Cheers!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

That is awesome!

[@elizaC3024]

Another great video. I appreciate all of your insights. We are spending 3 months in Thailand, our winter months. December in Bangkok, January in Chiang Mai, and February in Ko Samui. We too are in the US and are sick of the poor behavior of people. We retired from a city to our rural cabin in Northern Michigan. We love our spring and summer weather and activities here, but in our mid sixties, we are happy to spend our winters away. We will keep our primary residence and travel for as long as we are able. Life is too short to not go out and see the world.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Sounds like a great plan, Elizabeth!

[@erakiNRG]

100% agree. I live similarly in Nakon Ratchisima, Lao Esson Country, at my wife's home this month, after 6 months in Jomtien Beach. We are going back to America for 6 months to return in November. Like you I enjoy the adventure, learning Thai language, culture, food, etc. SabaiDeeMai, and SawatDeeKrap, 555

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Always love to get comments like these from those who actually live here and are making it work well.

[@Rando6s]

This was an EXCELLENT video Randy, thank you for speaking your mind and covering a broad range of useful topics. You have gained a new subscriber and my respect, much love! I'm moving to Thailand in the coming months and this video summed up everything perfectly as to why I am leaving the USA, looking forward to the good life in Thailand surrounded by people on the same frequency.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

What a great message to read. Big thanks.

[@markkelly2115]

Like your straightforward, informative vids. Met my wife on Thai Love Links (now ThaiCupid I think) about 14 years ago. Courted her in multiple (prob about 30) trips to Thailand and married 12 years ago and she moved here to the Boston area with me. She is everything you’ve described as a Thai partner and more - basically a dream come true. Multiple times a day a look at here and laugh to myself and ask “how did I get here”? We are retiring to Phuket in less than two years where she will support me - even though I have enough income to support us both, well. She had a good career in real estate before coming to the U.S. which she will likely return to. In the U.S. she has been a manager at Forever 21, Michael Kors, and now Starbucks. The biggest impediment to a career in the U.S. for her is the amount that we travel - including to Thailand multiple times a year for more than 10 years. She has about 500K followers on Instagram, and 35K followers on Facebook - predominantly Thai. Her content is primarily about a Thai woman’s life moving to America, along with her cooking and our travels. Another example here that your videos are on the mark.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Can I frame your comment and put on my wall? 555. Thanks and continued best wishes.

[@p.c.h.6721]

Such a great video. I know a lot of Expats and most of them are bored, they spend their days at the local bar. Extremely important to find the lust for life. I used to live in Southern California back in the 80s and 90s, I would need live there again, too dangerous, crazy taxes. Stay safe out there 👍

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks. Funny, my expat friends never go to bars. Just different worlds. Maybe an age thing... or maybe what we find fulfilling.

[@jdsalinger147]

Another outstanding upload! Your personal anecdotes are much appreciated and really bring the expat experience to life.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks for your consistently nice comments.

[@kayflip2233]

I'm Southeast Asian American and my family came to Chicago in the late 70s. America has given me so much in my life, including a good career in tech, nice apartment on the UES of Manhattan, all of my lovely friends and wife etc. I am happy to see Americans also moving to Southeast Asia to enjoy their retirement too. I think Asians and Westerners integrate very well so happy to see them enjoying life back in the motherland as well given all they provided for me in America in my life.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Very nice statement. Thank you.

[@jimhardy4987]

I have watched lots and lots of Thailand videos … this is, by far, the best summary for why to come live in Thailand. The first point, adventure, is often missed by others but so true. I come often and stay for a month or two … my trips to Thailand are always filled with a liveliness that is rarely matched back home in Canada.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks, Jim. Enjoy your next trip here.

[@anthonyc92107]

Tony here from Ocean Beach (San Diego, CA). Great video, I've spent some time in Thailand & I love Thailand. I'll be retiring to Thailand in less than 2 years! 😊 Chiang Mai is one of my favorite parts, & Hua Hin too! Thank you for your perspective / info.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks so much, Anthony. Very nice of you.

[@darryl.c7972]

OB! lol..lived in Pt Loma then downsized to Linda Vista to save money and we moved to Chiang Mai 2017! I'M NEVER LEAVING! Hope you make the move!

[@tyionallen6357]

This the BEST way to present an experience. I appreciate your post her, God Bless you and your wife 🙏🏽

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Very nice of you, thanks.

[@roblacyclist1170]

Enjoyed your video. Your opinions are spot on. I lived in Chiang Mai for 3 months last year and enjoyed all the positives of it while I was there. I am looking forward to returning to Thailand later this year.

[@TwinJalanugraha]

hi, which months did you live in CM?

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks and hope to see you back.

[@edwelsh9035]

Thank you very much for sharing yourself with your fans and a really great, well organized video. I am 63 and moved to Thailand last October for basically the same reasons you mentioned (My wife and I are currently back in the US for the month of April to see our daughter, grandson, and pay my taxes). We visited Chang Mai for a couple of days last November, but decided to retire in Hua Hin. The cost of living is very reasonable compared to Dallas Texas, the people are friendly, the weather is warm and the beaches are very good. In addition, I get great medical care at the Bangkok Hospital location in Hua Hin. If you and your wife are ever in Hua Hin, please feel free to contact us, and we can meet you for lunch. Ed and Thoy Welsh

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Very nice of you. We did a video in Hua Hin and enjoyed it. I laughed at the "fans" comment. That's a word I never associate with myself. I'll take "viewers." (:

[@user-kt9zs]

That's the exact hospital that ripped me off. If you go there under emergency conditions you won't know what the prices will be other than the room. You are likely to get ripped off like I did.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

@@user-kt9zs Sorry to hear that. I had a good experience there and their rep is good, though some think they overcharge. But I hear that about every hospital in the west, so...

[@user-kt9zs]

​@@RetiredGlobalLife No doubt USA hospitals are ripping people off left and right. But I think you should understand that if Thais can find a way to extract more money from foreigners, they will. Notably, I was informed by Thai physicians that many Thais get residency training in the US. I believe they have done this to learn about pricing so they can pull similar stunts in private hospitals in Thailand. I was actually ripped off by a Thai private hospital for a minor illness which was even later reported in Thai news as a widespread problem. Finally, just because USA hospitals charge excessive prices does not provide an excuse for Thai hospitals to charge excessively even though the pricing may be significantly less. This is in fact what is going on in Thailand. They know USA pricing and they keep it lower, but prices are excessive. It's dishonest. And it will get worse in coming years. They could never charge as much as in the USA because they are not capable of delivering the same level of care when we are talking about emergency and ICU and advanced therapies.

[@norrisbethke7770]

Nicely presented points..always feel the happiness rising inside as the plane descends into Chiang Mai airport (CNX) and the total lack of any stress upon awakening the next morning, then for a great first breakfast…amen 🙏🏻👏👏👏🇹🇭

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Yes, true about the plane... Thanks.

[@williammit1332]

Thank you for acknowledging the LGBT community, in the 8 years I've been watching Thai expat KZbin, you're the first heterosexual to kindly bring it up. Made my day,I was also born in 1956. Living in Thailand is reminiscent of growing up then in a small town surrounded by community and family. Not so much these days in the US.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

William that is a very nice comment. Thanks. And I hate that there are people that try to take other's happiness away, just because they have a different view of life.

[@NYC-2-BKK]

I'm a 47 year old Thai-American and am starting to think about retirement in Thailand. Your videos are full of insight and you've earned my subscription. Keep up the good work!

[@kevinp8108]

@NYC-2-BKK - I am a 56-year-old Thai-American who came to the USA at the age of 2. After 54 years, I am ready to retire in the country of my birth, the motherland! I am truly grateful to my adopted country of the US but I feel that Thailand is suited better for my retirement. I feel that the US is great for making money but Thailand is a better place to make a life, especially if you have dual citizenship like myself. No need for any long-term visa and the ability to purchase land. Our dollars will go a long way in Thailand! I hope you decide to retire in Thailand. I'll be there in 2 years!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Very kind of you! Thanks and good luck.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Lucky you with the dual citizenship!

[@NYC-2-BKK]

@@kevinp8108 I’m with you on that one. My wife is Thai from Issan and became a US citizen in 2022. Once our daughter is fully independent and out of the house we can then seriously consider retiring, and I hope she will send us money regularly and take care of us too 555. Best of luck on your retirement plans as you are closer to it than I am.

[@NYC-2-BKK]

@@RetiredGlobalLife 💯

[@2kkto2]

Correct. Correct Correct. Good job.It is nice to see a blogger with an understanding of being here. I was first here as a RTW backpacker in 1974.. After a month here, I knew where I eventually wanted to live. There is an element of village life that is reminiscent of the 1950s. This is mostly a matriarchal society. I lived for 20 years in my wife's village and it was fascinating. There is so much about the culture that has charmed and enthralled me. I have been with my wife for 24 years now. We have a home outside of CM here as well though I think the village will always feel like home.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

What a great and insightful comment. Big thanks.

[@Rainerbrett]

Hello, thank you so much for your video. I am currently living in Germany and I have been to Thailand many times. Currently, I am in the process of making a decision to move to Thailand. I have seen many videos on this issue but yours has squarely it the nail on the head when it comes to my situation and what matters in the decision making progress. Thank you for your very valuable insights.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

I hope they keep being helpful and good luck.

[@lasoffa]

Hi Randy...Love you KZbin channel...I'm also from Southern California and maintain homes both there and for almost 30 years in Thailand and Hua Hin. I'm retired now but originally came out to Asia to help ESPN set up a joint venture in Singapore. Along the way, married my Thai wife (27 yrs ago), had a lovely daughter and consulted in the Telecom and Media business, after leaving ESPN, for about 25 yrs. Keep up the good work!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

So nice to hear from an experienced American experienced in Thailand who likes the channel! Greatly appreciate hearing from you.

[@lasoffa]

It's really rare to find sane, non go go bar, related tips and advice from a seemingly level headed fellow here. I found a kindred soul when you listed the 5 reasons you stayed here.

[@StevenTrinh57]

I lived in the US for almost 50 years (immigrated from Vietnam) and totally agree with you on all the issues that you mentioned in the video, so I left the US and came back to live in my home country and love it (good thing I still can speak and understand Vietnamese though). My bf and I are going to visit Bangkok & Phuket next week and can't wait to explore Thai culture, culinary among other things.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Great story. Thanks. Hope you enjoy the visits.

[@StevenTrinh57]

@@RetiredGlobalLife Thank you :)

[@poetic.voyage]

Great video! I'm retiring to Bangkok from the US (at the ripe old age of 50) later on this year for many of the reasons you mentioned.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks and best wishes!

[@Richard.Cabeza]

Good choice. If I were to do it all over, I would have first moved to Bangkok. Lots to do there, more people to meet.

[@ScruffyNomad]

Randy, this video really spoke to me. We have a lot in common. Thank you for your great content and for always speaking from the heart. It is appreciated.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Very kind of you to make those observations. Thanks.

[@henrydufour9688]

I've lived in thailand for nearly 15 years. I agree with your conclusions. You and I have been lucky to have found good women to share our lives with. You have a positive outlook but there are good and bad people everywhere and some women will smile and be very accomodating before the wedding as a trade off for financial security. One insight that I will share is that if you are carrying crushing emotional baggage in the usa, you will land in thailand with the same baggage. Thailand can be a welcome change and an exciting adventure but it is not a panacea.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

I love the baggage comment. I have to write these good lines down to use in a future video...

[@marchanson711]

Thanks for another great episode. I really enjoyed hearing your heartfelt opinions and deep wisdom. Very refreshing and useful. Looking forward to the next one. Peace.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

You are making me blush... haha. Thanks so much. Really appreciated.

[@toniking8900]

We really appreciate and enjoy your videos. You are so concise and provide excellent information. Thank you for all your hard work.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks, Toni! Very nice of you.

[@OrganicFaithFactory]

If you live in Chiang mai please join the sport activities including "Chiang mai walk and talk hiking group", Road cycling, or mountain bike. You will make plenty of friends and its good social for older folks (I'm 52 Thai). You can visit the Base Camp coffee shop and start your hike at the monk trail or from the dame to view 1 Doi sutep.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks for posting. Feel free to post here about activities.

[@maidenfanusa]

One way to sum all of what you're saying up is the following: life is better overseas. I recently finished living in Korea for 2 years and prior to that, the UK for 4. Life was better, even with the crummy weather in both places. I was in the Uk during covid. It wasn't political or contentious and people wore their masks as the government asked them to. I think it's the American character: confrontational and violent. Going back to driving on the left, being in the UK, I got used to it. When I drove in Thailand this past Nov, like you said, all the scooters darting this way and that way, I had to be more on guard. I don't mind driving on the left though...the UK experience helped me in Thailand and in New Zealand when I rented a car there.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Great post. Thanks.

[@Derren-r6r]

Hi, I’ve just found your videos and they are simply amazing. I’ve been in Thailand for coming up 1 year and left the UK because I too sought adventure. I currently live in rural Thailand and wow is it a challenge. I’m trying to learn Thai but it is incredibly hard ( for me). Though I don’t have a lot of disposable income, I love living here. Thailand is stunningly beautiful and the people are amazing. Looking forward to working my way through your fabulous videos. Take care both.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

What a nice comment. Thanks so much. With your attitude you have to do well here. No worries.

[@user-ql2rr7ud4t]

Really enjoyed this video and as I start my journey to living 6 months out of the year in Thailand your channel has been super helpful. Thanks

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

I love hearing things like that. Thanks and good luck!

[@nealweeks6632]

Good for you. I am glad to see you are with Joy. You guys make a great couple. I am so happy to see that. Nice video.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks so much! Hope to see you here again.

[@joepreski8860]

Hi Andy, Thanks for another great video. I agree with you on all topics 100%. I have been married to a Thai lady for 22 years, and within that time have spent a lot of time in Thailand. We also use to live in San Diego (East County) but moved to Texas 7 Yrs. ago and now getting ready to make the final move to Thailand. Currently we are trying to decide where in Thailand to live. I already have my visa so once we decide where that is we will sell our home in TX and move to the land of smiles. Again, Thanks for the great video. Khun Joe

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Andy send his thanks for your nice comment. And so glad about the visa in hand and planned move.

[@danielmcgrath564]

Just retired at 65. Working for a year in semi retirement part time and then leaving for Asia. I agree with your take on America.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Nice to hear from you, Daniel. Good luck in your retirement. Or be like me... and be sort of semi-retired forever... Not a bad life.

[@cryptolicious7668]

Hey. I am considering leaving the US. I love your content. Very well spoken reasonable and trustworthy. Thank for your content.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Wow, such a nice comment. Thanks. Please come again. Best wishes.

[@cryptolicious7668]

Is it fairly hot all year round in Chang Mai?

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

@@cryptolicious7668 Rainy season is still hot but a lot of cloud cover so not the hot sun. Winter in Chiang Mai can still get hot but the evenings can actually get cool and you will see Thais in jackets in the morning. Cold for them. Westerners still in shorts. Haha.

[@patrickpepper412]

Another great video. You are making my decision to move to Thailand much easier

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks, Patrick. Appreciated!

[@DreamofThailand19000]

As a Thai who has been living in US for years, I agree with everything you said. Yes, Thais are bad with it comes to driving. I am also retiring in Thailand. Love everything about my beloved country except driving, air pullution, and the heat !

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks for the nice comment. Good to hear Thais agree with me. (:

[@kevinp8108]

@DreamofThailand19000 - I am a 56-year-old Thai-American who is planning to move back to the motherland for retirement in a few years.

[@DreamofThailand19000]

@@kevinp8108 I know I have to adjust a lot. It'll be challenging but I am happy to be back home!

[@unclsmty]

I’m a 66 year old retired American and I intend to spend 3-4 months a year in Thailand. This is the best video I’ve seen regarding Thailand, its culture and its people. The comment you made about people looking for an excuse to be offended is so true. It was funny how you had to explain yourself when you were talking about American women and Thai women. You might live in Thailand but you still are an American and know how American women think 😀. Thanks again for a very insightful video.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Ah you see right through me, haha. Thanks for the nice comment.

[@Rustyjarz]

You nailed it for me. I'm bored, just like you were. I need to spice up my life, just like you did. I'm 55 yo, in Australia and have less that 12 months to wait. Counting the days. It's difficult being so close and counting the day until I pack up and retire in Thailand!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

We welcome you!

[@joeusa8472]

Totally agree with you and at 75 I will be applying for my retirement visa in Thailand this fall.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks Joe and best wishes.

[@wazzaoz5869]

Fantastic vlog and very much on the money. I have stated to my friends in Australia , how much Thailand reminds me of my childhood, and the way things used to be in the west. Even though I will be long gone, let's hope that Thailand does not follow the same path in 20 years time. For me the main reason I am leaving to live permanently in Thailand this year after travelling to the Kingdom for many many years, is to have my internal "PEACE"

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Nice to hear my own thoughts echoed back to me!

[@ethicpereira139]

ME TOO. I AGREE WITH YOU. I AM TIRED AND FED-UP OF AMERICA. JUST CAN’T WAIT TO GET OUT OF HERE I AM 62 Y. AND I AM TRYING TO GET RID OF ALL MY STUFF. I AGREE WITH YOU WITH ALL YOUR POINTS. WE CAN JUST DOWN AND HAS A FEW DRINKS AND TALK ABOUT ALL THESE THINGS WE BOTH HATE.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Haha, yes. And as I said, I don't hate my home country, not at all, still a great place in many ways. But not the country of years ago, or maybe my sensibilities have just changed.

[@The_Turd_Ferguson]

Very honest and good vid. And for all the topics covered, aside from the romance piece, are exactly the reasons we are moving.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Glad to. hear it. Thanks and good luck.

[@scottboyne2889]

4.5 years and my Thai wife is here with me in Michigan..I have a little less than 8 years to retirement age. I have doubled the size of her house in Si Mueang Mai and gave it some western amenities..can't come soon enough.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Hey Scott, we hope you make it back soon!

[@elygcrew1794]

You hit the nail in your first sentence. The sense of adventure, the sense of feeling really alive is a gift from Thailand. I am going to follow your channel because I am 33 years old now and my goal is to live in Thailand around my 40’s. And I need all the info ℹ️ I can get.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

So glad to have you!

[@latebloomerabroad]

I understand your first reason, definitely! I traveled around the world alone for 6 months in 2022 and it temporarily satisfied my need for adventure. My 2 months living in Chiang Mai were extremely lonely though; I couldn't find a way to meet people (I don’t mean romantic partners, I just wanted friends, men or women.) I feel like I was open to talking and not too pushy, but I only made 1 friend, someone I watched on KZbin. Unless I find a way to solve that problem, I won’t be moving to Thailand.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Sorry to hear that. Did you go the Expats Club here? Lots of people to welcome you and get involved in many activities. Best wishes.

[@latebloomerabroad]

@@RetiredGlobalLife I tried; I went to the location where the website said the club would be meeting at the end of my first month, and nobody was there! I never did find out what happened. If I go back, I'll ask you to confirm where and when the meeting is, or maybe connect me with someone in the group who can help me.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

@@latebloomerabroad I'm not active in it myself but I meet many who are. Next time we will get you to the right place if you message me in advance.

[@mikerothstein6428]

So I'm 64 and live in the US and it's a mess. Ive been divorced since 2010 and live in a Rural area of Colorado. I'm extremely frustrated and when I go on dating sites it is also a mess. I'm falling in love with the idea of pulling up stakes and trying something different. Something will have to change. Thank you for the content it is grist for this mill.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Sorry things are not going your way. Think of checking out Thailand - or wherever - as a big adventure. Even if you go spend a few months and it is not for you... you hopefully had some great moments to add to your life collection.

[@Swimallsummer]

Thank you for sharing. I first traveled to Thailand in the 80’s and it was the most interesting and exotic place I had ever been. I am now happily married to a Thai lady and feel very much a part of her family.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

I love to get messages like this.

[@dan080467]

Real talk. Well elucidated. Straightforward but with enough mitigation to ward off your more reactionary audience members. Enjoyable and valuable, cheers.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Ah, you read me like a book, Dan! Thanks.

[@siamiam4306]

You're probably the most realistic expat I'.ve come across, and I get you. I share the same sense of adventure and I'm content accomplishing that from Florida. I'm a So Cal native and dummied down already and scaled down costs. ............. I flirted with moving to Thailand as a natural progression on the first visir. I dissed that idea, as I'm ok and can travel there when I want to get my fix. I recently stayed at La Naview in Chang Mai and had an awesome Songkran, nearby Wat Praising defined again the true essence of the annual ritual. After weeks in Thailand, we spend 1o nights in Egypt and probably my most rewarding trip. If you ask me, I never return there again, and Thailand is always an option I make good on every year. That's good enough, as is good old U.S of A.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Great life plan and nice message. Sounds like you have a great plan that works perfectly for you. Many would be jealous.

[@user-xt4bd9wn6e]

I too am from Southern California born in 1958 and you hit the nail on the head with this video. I agree and feel the same about the hostility, politics, cost of living etc. Thailand has given back to me the freedom and feel of my youth with its open space and adventure. It's one of the best decisions I've made in my life and now several of my FB friends who see my posts are following. No regrets! 😊

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Time to start your own YT channel, 555. Thanks for the nice comment.

[@ncascadehiker]

This one resonates. You remind me of every dad I knew growing up. I grew up in the 70's and people were generally very kind and polite to one another. That was the cultural norm. Now I am met with rudeness and disrespect everywhere. I think lots of American men have heard about Thailand. A couple of young guys at my work married Thai women. I am dating one now, and she has some great qualities. I help her cut vegetables at the restaurant where she works. The Thai staff are really fun people too, and kind. When I encounter American women, they are loud, prickly, over confident, and apt to look down on me. I believe it is a result of the culture wars in the US where women are fired up with rhetoric about being underpaid and under represented in leadership roles. I throw my hands up. I need to enjoy this short life and find some peace.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks so much! Glad to hear from you and I hope you visit again.

[@leekillian5269]

55 years old and I back a month in the US after spending 20 days in Bangkok and Phuket. You nailed it exactly with this video and I am now subscribing and will see your past episodes. Wife wanted a divorce after 28 years. You are correct that it’s hard to get over but once you do, hello Thailand.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

I can see the future... and yours is looking up! Wishing you happiness in Thailand or wherever.

[@PhilLee-qn7gr]

Great video. I especially liked the way you discussed the personal and cultural aspects of life in Thailand rather than just the pure logistics. I had never considered retiring outside of the US until literally about 3 days ago. Im still about 10 years away, but I'm definitely leaning in that direction.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Very nice comment, thanks!

[@mikemyers7317]

Agree 100 percent, we will be neighbors soon. Hope to meet you.

[@davep3148]

Me as well. I’ll be moving over that way in December and looking forward to it!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Glad to hear it!

[@Keithnasia]

"Leaving the U.S. is the New American Dream"...let's add Canada to the list too, haha)) Randy, your 5 listed reasons for leaving are eloquently spot on...when people ask why I prefer Thailand, I think I'll just tell 'em to watch your video! Going to be 2 weeks in Chiang Mai in June, checking out condos together with my Thai partner whom I met on my second visit to Thailand last October...your video on condos is a great starting point for us, thank you Randy and Joy!

[@Vonsat]

LOL, that's a good one. The NEW American dream😂

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Keith, what a very nice post. Thanks and best wishes.

[@nnbbbb158]

I think it's great that you don't skip over the sensitive subjects. Economics in the states really make it impossible for both parents to stay home and unfortunately each year it seems like Americans are more concerned with appearances, showing wealth they don't really have, and status symbols. My experience in Asia has been very wholesome, people are nicer, its safer, food is incredibly healthy and you have enough extra income to relax and truly enjoy LIFE. I'm looking forward to doing yoga, growing plants, exercising, and having a balanced life in retirement. Can't do that in the US.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Hey, a very nice email... and you have got it figured life-wise. Best wishes and come again.

[@randallhitchcock6251]

Hello Randy! I have watched several of your KZbin videos now and I find them both informative and very well done. The research and detail put into each of these videos is greatly appreciated. My personal story is very similar to yours, but I have met my new girlfriend (Faye) here in the US and hoping to convince her to at least consider Thailand (maybe Chiang Mai) for our new home. I'm a year away from pulling the retirement switch and have had so many questions that I have found answers to here. I have been over to Thailand twice and I am in love with the country and Faye has been once and loves the country as well. I look forward to viewing more of your KZbin videos and content and wanted to say thank you for putting in the time an effort to produce this great information. Hopefully we may run into you and Joy in Chaing Mai soon. Cheers! BTW, also Randy;)

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks, Randy, and congrats on all you have going on. All sounds great!

[@edubnorcal4671]

Great video. I agree with your top 5 wholeheartedly and it is actually pretty amazing how your story aligns with my own personal feelings. I live in Northern California and will be moving to Thailand full-time in August of this year. I have lived abroad in China previously for almost 5 years and very much look forward to this next adventure in my life.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks so much and sincere best wishes to success to you in your travels.

[@farawayfred802]

Great video as always, I love your perspective. I moved here to Chaing Mai 7 months ago and your take definitely reflects mine. Keep up the great work.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks, Fred. Appreciate it and keep diggin' CM.

[@Peter-tm7zp]

Hi Randy, I agree with you so much, thank goodness Thailand gives us an exciting, peaceful and affordable alternative. Great News for me, I'm 61 and finish up on wall street May 15 and will move to Bangkok by late July, where my family and friends are waiting to celebrate my arrival, how cool! Appreciate your content, has kept me motivated for months. The picture of you and Joy getting couples massage is priceless.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks and best wishes in BKK!

[@martintokar7893]

Excellent show, intelligent, succinct. Thank you 😊

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Big thanks!

[@mlrussell1]

New subscriber here. As a retired 55 year-old from Long Beach, CA, I agree with EVERYTHING you said regarding Thailand and the U.S. I recently returned from a months stay in BK and I cannot wait to return for a longer stay (I didn't want to leave, but I had to return to the U.S. for medical reasons).

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

So sorry to hear about the medical return but I hope all is well now and we will have you in Thailand soon.

[@peteonretreat2023]

Great video! This topic has been on my video list for awhile… someday. I love how your production quality continues to improve. Great graphic presentation, fun video clips, relateable and entertaining script… top tier content.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Coming from someone with a really fun channel that is so nice to here, Pete. Continue the great life out your way in Pattaya.

[@swtexan6502]

Every reason you stated regarding leaving America truly resonate with us as well. We're looking to retire early (55) and potentially relocate abroad (Portugal, Panama, etc). I was stationed at Camp Pendleton and lived in Oceanside and Carlsbad in the early 90's and was able to do a couple of WestPacs to Okinawa- I absolutely loved it there. Chang Mai looks idyllic- one of these days, we'll head over there. Best of luck and thanks for the information.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Hey bit thanks and thanks for your contribution via the military.

[@jampasurprenant1794]

You talk about Thailand I am agree with you mostly are true I am was born in Thailand and left Bangkok in the early seventhy and have been living in the northern of the United States more than fifty years. I am a Thai us citizen. And I know exactly what you are talking about as far as the united States Now a days .

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Good to hear from you and thanks.

[@JBoy340a]

Congrats. I have a relative that has been married to a woman from Thailand (Phuket) for 20 years or so. Very nice person. They live here in the US but built a nice place on Phuket. Thailand sounds like a paradise.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks for sharing!

[@wtan1851]

I agree with you. Don't rot your life away.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Big thanks!

[@EL68775]

Interesting documentation! ❤ Thank you.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks. Come again.

[@cdiaz1313]

Great video, Randy You are spot on with everything about Thailand. 👍 🇨🇷 I was there last year and I went this year again. I live in Orlando FL. And I am done with the craziness happening here and in this country. I plan to move to Thailand permanently next year. I am over 50 so I will be getting the retirement visa. I have fallen in love with Thailand. Again, Thank you for the video. I am now a new subscriber. 😀

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Very nice to have you and thanks. Good luck on your move!

[@jm31772]

Wonderful video, thank you!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thank you too!

[@JairoBarcenasPhotography]

Great talk! very relatable, thank you for the vid.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

I appreciate it, thanks!

[@warodomthamrongthanyawong691]

You are absolutely right, Thai road is probably the most dangerous in the world. The road fatality rate is around 1.8-2 persons/hour. Other than this, Thailand is relatively safe.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks. Thailand is both the safest and most dangerous. For different reasons.

[@werneramstutz6786]

I am from Switzerland, living here in warmer times, retired Airlinepilot and spend lots of time in the US, mostly winters in Florida. I agree 100% what you have said, you brought it up to the point, very great comparison. I said good by to my US friends and in October 2024 will fly to Thailand (Changmai, Bangkok, Phuket). By the way, my wife is from Bangkok, loves Switzerland, but is still a Thai National. But for me, living in Thailand is in many ways much better then even Switzerland, same reasen as you so clearly mentioned. Many thanks, great video.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks for such a great comment. Appreciated!

[@eddiegoh8228]

Beautifully articulated on all subjects. Thank you. You Help me clear through the fog that is my head

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Wow, Eddie, what a nice comment.

[@golfinginthailand]

I really don't like the thought that an expat would consider themselves on a higher level when they enter the Kingdom. This is the attitude that causes so many issues with expats behaving badly. Thoughts of superiority for any reason should be avoided. Enter the Kingdom with an open mind and a willingness to learn from the new country and their people. A lot of the rest of your comments are fairly accurate. Be careful with the Thai culture of smiling and seeming happy all the time. They are trained from birth to react that way and only do it to hide their true feelings. It's more important for us to prove to them that we are the friendly ones and will adapt to their lifestyle.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Good comments and thanks. But I did not say we are superior or should act superior. Far from it. I said Thais seem to respect westerners who behave well for the reasons I mentioned, which gives them extra respect. I'll stand by that. Maybe it is not deserved, and can be lost, but it is reality.

[@golfinginthailand]

@@RetiredGlobalLife So you actually said "You will get more respect just by being a westerner. They seem to think, in Thailand, that you have more education, more sophistication, more world knowledge. So you kinda enter Thailand almost on a higher social status than you have at home. So , that's an enjoyable thing." You may not have wished not to say that you were superior but that is clearly what you stated. Perhaps a higher social status is not superior in your opinion however in Thailand, social status is everything. It's on that note that I find westerners screw up when they come here (including myself). We act like we have rights that are simply not here. You have to leave your western ideologies behind. Thailand is a wonderful place but is being abused by so many that come here and see the Thais treating us so nicely and mistake that for our superiority. That was my point. Not to say you're wrong. To say we need to be careful how we act in this country. Your vlog is very good in most points and you are surely happy to be here. In the USA, a country you say you love, would you let someone come in and act like you hear about in Thailand without reprimand? I think not.

[@mercy4756]

Also, the comparisons of women - as if there’s something different about Asian women (ask Asian women how they feel about being fetishized…they don’t like it!) speaks to a colonial attitude of Western superiority. Most people - especially the men who go looking for romance in another country where they see women as “different here” when there is such a difference in income, experience, age, and culture shows a lack of understanding. No one country’s men or women are better. The more money and education a woman has, the more choices she has There are varying levels of poor women exchanging financial security for what she’d really want in a man Not being able to fully communicate with your partner does not mean the relationship is better…but some men will think this! I know how to read, write and speak Thai and have lived there and I can promise you, it would still be hard for me to have a deep, meaningful conversation with a friend or significant other. Therefore, relationships without communication become transactional - various levels of exchange of favors. Men who are t good at relationships or jaded by a divorce will often move to transactional relationships and these are the ones that “can only find Asians attractive (not American Asians or European Asians with education, speak the same language and have financial freedom, mind you - only poor Asians engaged in this transactional exchange). Very few of these relationships flourish or last. Many are looking over their shoulder and can’t actually truly trust their partner. If your goal is transactional fun, you will overlook this until burned. We’ve seen enough of these stories!

[@consulthai]

​@@mercy4756I understand your comments about transactional relationships but they're overemphasized partly because of the sex industry in Thailand . In terms of regular womenfolk in Thailand the description of transactional isn't true. You say that communication problems lead to transactional . Because if you can't communicate on a deep intellectual level the only thing left is a transaction. You bring a Western mindset to this in spite of your long stay here and your Thai language skills . The cultural aspect needs to be understood . Thai on Thai relationships aren't like Western ones . I don't think Thai couples have deep intellectual conversations as a rule . They're operating on a more basic level. So when you end up with a Thai wife/partner that's what she brings to the table . She doesn't see it as transactional but cultural. You come from the West and think in terms of business as distinct from romance . Your concept of love is different from Asian love . Asian love is more about care. In the West care can be transactional too, like a nursing home which you pay for. Not many nursing homes in Thailand, when you are old and frail care is given as a norm. It's not sold . A Thai wife knows this and an example of this is where she is with you when you're hospitalised and she is sleeping on a sofa in you hospital room, taking care of you 24/7 . Would a Western wife do that? Many mixed marriages here are based on fulfilling both partners needs . It's beyond being monetized. What she can offer maybe more than money can buy . A transaction suggests a deal where it's value for value exchange. I ask you this, if a woman is a stay home Mum and manages the home while the husband goes to work can you put a remuneration for her chores? On what basis? I accept that many men come to Thailand where you can buy women in the bars on a use by basis. Purely transactional. It took me a while not to tar my wife with that brush. I know her compassion for me , I'm not an easy guy to live with due to some health issues . She provides care far beyond I provide from my resources . And I see this here in the neighbourhood I live in with other mixed couples . So when I hear these transactional comments I wonder what experiences you had .

[@sumathpanvisawas2712]

คนไทยถูกปลูกฝังให้มีความเอื้อเฟื้อเผื่อแผ่ มีน้ำใจให้การช่วยเหลือโดยไม่หวังสิ่งตอบแทน ส่วนหนึ่งมาจากพุทธศาสนา คนไทยตื่นเช้ามาตักบาตร ใส่อาหารให้พระสงฆ์ได้บริโภค เหมือนฝากบุญไปถึงพ่อแม่ญาติพี่น้องที่ล่วงลับไปแล้ว. แต่คนไทยก็ยังคงมีกิเลส ตัณหา ยังโลภ ยังโกรธ ยังมีความต้องการเช่นมนุษย์ทั่วไป เพียงแต่คนไทยมีสติยับยั้งในอารมณ์นั้นได้ ถ้าไม่ถูกกระตุ้นจนเหลืออด. การยิ้มเหมือนจะบอกว่ายินดี ไม่เป็นไร แต่อย่าทำอะไรที่ดูเหยียด คนไทยรับความรู้สึกแง่ลบได้ไว และอยู่ว่าจะปล่อยผ่านไปหรือไม่ เหตุนี้ คนไทยถึงเปิดรับผู้คนหลากหลายโดยไม่มีความรังเกียจและอยู่ร่วมกันในสังคมได้ เช่น LGBTQ+ หรือ คนต่างเชื้อชาติ ต่างสีผิว คนไทยก็เปิดใจต้อนรับ.❤

[@jenniferwithey6443]

In America, as a woman, I think you have a constant sense of striving to do more & be successful in everything - career, raising children, perfect cook, perfectly maintained home. No one can be perfect in all of it. We now put much, much more pressure on ourselves than women in previous generations that had more structured roles. That being said, in previous generations, if a woman was in a psychologically or physically abusive relationships, getting out and providing for herself & children was much harder. And in previous generations women who had a very strong drive for a professional career (doctor, engineer, scientist, etc) had a much more difficult time being taken seriously.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks so much for the comment. (:

[@1gx619]

Dude the days of lunch for 2 in San Diego for $40-$50 are long gone. Now it’s more like $50-$60. The accepted tip rate is now 20% minimum😫

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

So I'm cheap I guess, haha. Thanks.

[@1gx619]

@@RetiredGlobalLife Me too!!! Hey do they have a Costco in Chiang Mai? Was wondering if I could find frozen strawberries and blueberries there for my morning smoothies

[@mchaisoccer]

​@@1gx619You can find frozen strawberries and blueberries in the local supermarket in Chiangmai.

[@Robert8455]

Great video. Well spoken and organized. I think you are spot on with the reasons for leaving. I'm less than 1 year before I say enough and punch out. I will be a few years early and I am excited about touring Asia. Thailand was high on my list for many reasons but the pollution and maybe the tax rules might limit my stay to visits only. I'm eyeing Malaysia and Philippines. So excited to let the new adventures begin!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Hey, I'm excited for you! I think you will find the tax worries will not affect you as due to the double tax treaty only untaxed revenue in your home country would be taxable by Thais, so won't affect 99% of people. But I admit it is all fuzzy still as a new law. Pollution is an issue. I solve it in Chiang by going elsewhere for Feb/March/April most of the time.

[@Mandy_paweena]

Thank you for good information about everything . We will make plans to move to Thailand in 5 years. My husband getting a lot of information from your channel.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

I am so glad it is helpful! Thanks and best wishes.

[@andrewwatchorn2754]

I wanted to thank and congratulate you on your content. I have watched most of your videos and found you to be a superb, objective and honest observer of life in Thailand. I have yet to take the leap but feel better informed and confident that Thailand is a genuine option in retirement. Best wishes for your future happiness and success from a cold and wet part of north east England!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Andrew what a super nice comment. You made me smile.

[@eamesho7723]

If you are on the fence, it would be good if you have the time to take 3 months off and travel and live in various parts of thailand for awhile. Earmark 3 likely provinces you see yourself long term and stay for a month each instead of throwing the kitchen sink right into making the big move and finding out later on its not for you.

[@Mike-du1dc]

Thanks for the video.Your #1 was the same as mine when I moved there. After 7 years we moved back for various reasons but now we once again think of moving back to Thailand for just the reasons you mentioned. Thanks

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Great comment, Mike. Hope you make a happy return.

[@consulthai]

I'm gonna say this to allcomers here. I have been watching this channel from its beginnings . I find it always interesting, honest, fair , helpful and well intended . I think it isn't put up for income but as a genuine attempt to help people who contemplate retiring in Thailand . Now it's starting to attract a few people, thankfully only a handful, commonly known as trolls . I wouldn't even go as far as that, maybe just some people whom I'd describe as sceptics . I think Randy is an extremely polite,tolerant and diplomatic person and doesn't engage with them in a negative way. I admire him for it . Fact is that when you create a channel on KZbin and give people some insight into your private life you got to cop it . What motivates people to have a go at you even as you're providing good info is baffling but it is what it is. I guess it reflects on them badly not on you. Be that as it may, I hope Randy persevers and adopts a water off a ducks back attitude . Way to go ,Randy💪!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Tom, you are always so nice. Thanks. I only rarely get upset by a comment that it stays with me all day and have only had to delete two comments, one a racist and one just an anonymous hater with no name, no photo, just cowardly hating. I find it funny that people think as a KZbinr that you are making a lot of $. I think the last few months my monthly total was $250, although it does jump up when a video hits, then maybe it is $900 for a month or two, then back down. Doing these videos is a bit of an addition. Fun to share info and I've always been a teacher, either an actual teacher or an attorney who likes to educate about things, so sharing info is a natural desire, even if I often see my finished videos and think I could have done it much better. And it is a great couples activity with Joy with we film things around town. We will try to keep doing a good job and have fun with it. Thanks again.

[@villagefarang]

Randy claims he wants to be the “#1 source of information about Chiang Mai” yet most of it is cutesy, superficial tourist stuff which has been covered a million times before. I guess that is understandable as he doesn’t actually live here and only visits, giving him more of a visitors perspective on things. I don’t want him to stop, I want him to up his game. I find the Thailand YT community interesting. A comment locally will get me labeled a troll where a comment on a site like DOAC with 5 million subscribers with earn me 7000 likes and hundreds of interesting comments. It is not just the questionable content and production quality one finds in Thailand, there is also a defensiveness and unwillingness to engage with ideas. Either love me or get labeled a troll or banned seems to be the way of things. I would love to see an improvement in Thailand YT quality but it often seems intent is viewed as sufficient.

[@consulthai]

@@villagefarang I reread your comments three times . The DOAC channel and this one aren't comparable . I don't think Randy aspires to be Steve Bartlett. Different strokes . You can continue to attend there and enjoy the repartee. It seems like a fulfillment for you in a village . Here it's a different genre . You call it cutsie ,I call it endearing. Perceptions,mate. You say you don't want him to stop but raise his game up a notch or two for your taste. How about all the other's taste including mine but more importantly Randy's. It's his channel and he decides at what level he operates. For crying out loud, the guy wants to enjoy his retirement his way and he testifies and documents it in a very pleasant way . Sincerely. Diplomatically. Professionally. Not good enough for you? So what, you got choices. Myriads of them on KZbin. Take your pick, this wasn't a good one for you , it's ok. When you go to a buffet you pick and choose too.

[@villagefarang]

@@consulthai You seem to recoil at the idea of improvement. At least you refrained from calling me names.✌

[@consulthai]

​@@villagefarangmy name is Tom but I don't know what to call you. I'm a problem solver where there is one. But you know what they say,if it ain't broke don't fix it. Almost everything can be improved on. This channel ,in my professional opinion , only needs occasional tweeks not a transformation. Believe me, if I thought otherwise I would unsubscribe. I don't recoil from most things especially from improvements . I'm peacefully retired here until my demise. I'm not looking for stouches,but I stick up for what I believe is good, Like this channel. You can have the last word if you wish but now need my nap😅

[@jampasurprenant1794]

Hello there , Your story sounds amazing and interesting at the same time I am a Thai woman my home town is lem khlong samsam makkasan district ratchathew Bangkok. I left Thailand in the early sevenths and still here in the northern New England of the United States. I am looking forward to going back home to completely finish my retirement and the name of the town I have in mind is the town called Hua Hin. Any way I wish you the best of luck .

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Great to hear from you! Joy and I went to Hua Hin and did a video of it. Check it out. We enjoyed it there.

[@karmaxxl7945]

Bravo, this was honest and beautifully said! I'm David from Toronto Canada 🇨🇦, I have travelled to Thailand several times and hope to retire there in 5yrs when I'm 65. Joy and Your videos are great and helping me plan, I'm considering HUA Hin. I hope someday to be sharing a meal with Joy & yourself when I make the move. Take Care, David 🇨🇦

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks David. We did a video on Hua Hin and enjoyed the city. Good choice. And there is a great sports club there for tennis, swimming, gym, etc, nicer than anyplace I've seen in California and a fraction of the price.

[@sonhuynh8222]

U hit the nail on the head 100% about the West. I live in Ca myself and not that far from you (Temecula). I honestly believe that after 100 yrs of progress and being the world leader in many advances, we are now in a country in decline. Other so-called 3rd world countries are quickly catching up and have all the conveniences we do but at a much more affordable price. I hope to retire in Thailand within the next 5-7 yrs myself 🙏🏽

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks for the nice comments and to hear we have a lot in common.

[@Blobbert_8]

I appreciate the comments you made about women’s roles and how hard the traditional gendered roles are in the west for western women. I am Asian but from Canada and only 30 but I also noticed so many of my friends who had kids suffer because of the hard economy these days with high education fees and housing. I also know male friends who are married with kids who work and take on primary caregiving role for the baby and also have it hard. I have no kids (only way I can retire early!) so I see these things as an outsider.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks for such an astute and thoughtful comment.

[@ricardocrosby7290]

I always enjoy your content ! Good job 👍

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Big thanks, Ricardo!

[@ianpatrick23]

You have such a great story. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

You are always thoughtful Ian. Thanks. Have a great day.

[@Peter-sz1sn]

I love your video. Two comments from me: 1) Divorces are very tough. Yours was particularly hard on you (your eyes, while you were talking about it, said it all). It is nice that you found love again ... but it is also nice that you still have your house in the USA (read between the lines 😉) 2) the West is going thru a major transformation where common sense has left the room. Ladyboys in Thailand are considered third gender. They do not claim to be women. Not the case in the West. Great work!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Hey, thanks for such a nice and thoughtful comment. Very kind of you. Yes, you are correct. Ladyboys are a third gender. I didn't mean to say otherwise but then, that's not what the video is about. More about respect for everyone. I hope you visit again. Take care.

[@franticproductions]

I relate to almost everything you talk about here, it's uncanny how similar our views are. Wow I needed this. What about pets? Can't get my dogs eaten!

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Haha, what would eat your dogs in Thailand? Unless you play with the monitor lizards... You do have to be careful walking with some street dogs reacting to your dog. Very territorial sometimes.

[@joyinthailand]

Your observations about what's going wrong in the US and What's going right in Thailand are pretty spot on. My journey with a Joy of my own has added more peace and more living in my life. Are you still living 2 months at a time or have your pulled the trigger? How are you able to bring Joy to the States?

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

60% Thailand and 40% USA. Joy just got her B1B2 visa and will be in the USA soon and will do a vid on her observations, first time in the USA.

[@ErikBlair]

I've been feeling the same way you feel about the US for many years, and I am finally able to embark on the adventure you mention in the beginning. Although my goal doesn't include finding a partner/spouse, I'm not completely closed to that possibility. I am also concerned about the burning season and the safety of the roads as well, so I found the content of this video to be 100% accurate to my general feeling about moving to Thailand, which I hope to be doing in the next few months. If I felt there was hope for the US changing for the better in the next decade or so, I might consider staying, but I have found nothing but decades of diminishing returns with an endless amount of evidence suggesting the country is in serious decline. Thanks again for the great content. Hope to see you around Chiang Mai one day.

[@RetiredGlobalLife]

Thanks and good luck. I'm glad I could touch on the negative realities as well as the many good.

[@WilliamFluery]

Should I move to Thailand? Been there 30 times since 2005 and love the people & culture 1. Wanting Adventure in my life ✅✅✅ 2. Looking for Love & Romance✅ 3. Avoiding Crime & Safety✅✅✅✅ I was kidnapped at gunpoint in downtown Atlanta, Georgia 4. Lower Cost of Living ✅✅ 5. Politics & Religion✅✅ YES!!!

[@cancel.lgbtq.6892]

Its getting crazy here in the U.S. with all these radical agendas and politics.