The Realities of Living in Thailand as a Foreigner

Curious about what it's really like to live in Thailand as a foreigner? In this video, we'll give you a glimpse into the ups and downs of expat life in this fascinating country. From cultural differences to everyday challenges, we'll cover what you need to know before making the move. So whether you're considering a move to Thailand or just curious about life abroad, don't miss this informative video.
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[@drdellaman]

I have lived in Thailand for six years. When I go visit relatives in California I can't wait to get to Thailand.

[@diggingmystyle]

tell us more!

[@stevebone88]

Bad driving. Extreme humidity and heat. Flooding. Treated like a forigner. Well, I've lived in Florida for 40+ years, so I should be ok.

[@Taz-bz6mt]

😂😂😂

[@normanpearson8753]

Hihihihi

[@charlesbasso7115]

Yes, keep your criminality, your junk foods, your common people total lack of Eductation, keep your repressive police, your corrupted politicians...... stay in Florida. More room for us here

[@mischievousgamer8747]

🤣 you are well prepared!

[@harveypolanski755]

That’s exactly what I was thinking.

[@darryl.c7972]

Left CA after 30 years 1987-2017. Been married to my Thai wife for 14 years, live here now for six years in Chiang Mai and have a ten fold life compared to San Diego! Everything you said is spot on, altho my retirement visa I do yearly is never a problem and I do my 90 day report online..No desire to ever return to U.S.

[@dimitar297]

My wife I discovered after getting married was born a boy and even though she does not have a large penis I feel she should have told me.

[@sat_lok_]

I wish I could do the same. How much money do you need to live comfortably?

[@ksingh06]

​@@dimitar297 damn, you did not discover this before marriage?

[@BigTimTravels]

I'm in my mid 20s and planning to visit Thailand with my father. been looking at condos also. I'm thinking about buying a nice little spot there in the future. But wanna visit for a month before I spend 40k on a condo

[@monteblazilla7776]

@@dimitar297wtf 😳

[@Onraitravels]

All valid points that I have heard many times, both in watching you tube videos and living in 5+ years. Here are my observations for what they are worth A. There is a visa service in every major city in Thailand. You can pay to get your retirement visa and so the whole criticism about visa is moot. You have the money you can get a long term visa. B. The smoke is a real issue in the north. They burn sugarcane and rice fields and it miserable. That said, if you live near Sacramento, CA you will experience the same issue. Thousands of rice field that need to be burned near the state capitol. Last I googled it Sacramento ranked near the top of world’s worst air quality during the burn season. C. Motorcycles are inherently more dangerous and most people ride motorcycles in Thailand. It stands to reason there are going to be more accidents. Is the traffic worse here than other places. That depends on what you are comparing it to. Bali has the worst traffic of any country I traveled to. D. Is it safe? That question comes up a lot. An short anecdote might be amusing. I met my girlfriend on the main beach street in Patong, Phuket. We are 1 block from the Bangla (bar district), arguably not the best neighborhood. We go across the street to eat Indian food and she leaves her suitcase in the middle of the sidewalk. We have dinner, cross the street, pick up the suitcase and go home. Where else in the world would you feel assured that your bag was going to be there when you got back. E. People are poor, barely have enough to eat but you rarely see homelessness. On the other hand, homelessness has reached disastrous proportions in CA. F. Safety- you either believe that laws and police are going to protect or you take responsibility for your own safety. Sure it cuts both ways. You don’t depend on a crosswalk to protect you in Thailand while crossing the street, but it is your life and your responsibility to protect it. That means you have a heightened sense of the dangers around you in Thailand. I don’t think that is necessarily a bad thing. In my experience, people become complacent when they think a law is going to protect them. G. That you are always perceived as a foreigner. That is the same anywhere. When my family moved to another city in CA., we were still outsiders after living there 25 years. The video has many valid points, but it has to be put into context of other countries and cultures.

[@thereelahmsast8524]

Loved this. Well said.

[@ctb1977]

Agree with all of these. Regarding visas, this comes with being a foreigner in any country. I'm from the UK and my Asian friends living in the UK have to pay a lot more, and go through a lot more BS than we do here in Thailand. Another thing about safety. A lot of us are here to get away from our nanny states. I like the fact I'm responsible for my own safety. The only point I agree with in this video is the pollution and the dual pricing in National parks. Those things suck, but balancing the pros and cons I'm very happy here, and live an incredible quality of life in Thailand compared to UK

[@stevedom1]

yeah mostly agree but the driving is because hardly anyone does a test dont get insured or wear a helmet & drink drive. This type of moto ci driving is then applied directly to the cars as there is no training for most. Watch a thai try to negotiate a corner, any corner, i now know to make sure i stop & pull well over to the left slowly as they will cut the corner every time!!

[@keepitreal1547]

This is an excellent take on things in the land of smiles. Very helpful to many, thank you.

[@Retirementbliss]

As always great job with the videos. Inspired me to create my checklist for the move next year.

[@ErikBlair]

It's great to hear how moving to Thailand has personally made you happier. Coming from your perspective that's meaningful to me because I find myself agreeing with your take on a lot of the "issues" of living there. I like your style and appreciate your videos. Thank you!

[@glennfletcher9699]

I lived in Thailand for 32 years. I read, write, and speak good Thai. I have lived in Indonesia since 2014. I prefer Indonesia.

[@lynnbrooks2430]

May I ask where in Indonesia you live?

[@glennfletcher9699]

I live in place that is not well known. Balikpapan.@@lynnbrooks2430

[@brendonoehme8707]

That was an awesome vlog. Thanks heaps. Regards Brendon

[@vcom2327]

I lived in Thailand for 9 years with my Thai wife. I finally left because of the visa nonsense. I had to jump through hoops every year, no guarantee I would get a new visa, despite being married to a Thai. During the pandemic, the government said Thais could return from abroad. They forgot to include foreign spouses. As a result I was separated from my wife for 5 months, as were more than 5000 other spouses. Woooo. Driving is very dangerous, Thailand has the highest traffic fatality rate in the world. Yes, there is a higher foreigner price. I lived in Koh Lanta where it was extreme. Foreigners were charged double for virtually everything. From street food, to car repairs to rent to hospital visits to government documents. Scary. I left Chiang Mai after 1 year due to the pollution problem. Chiang Mai has an extremely high rate of lung disease. Government corruption is rampant. From the lowly civil servant demanding a bribe to stamp my simple document, to the government minor official demanding a bribe to issue my marriage license, to my immigration man demanding a bribe to complete my visa, to the majority of the upper levels of government. Very tiresome environment to live in. Almost every household appliance you buy in Thailand will self destruct within 6 months to 1 year. Planned obsolescence in the extreme. And yes, you will always be a foreigner in Thailand. No matter how hard you try to bridge the culture gap. Excellent report.

[@zacharyfair6738]

all the surrounding countries want to move to thialand. So they have to be strict. The northern tribe people are 2-3 generations deep and no citizen ship

[@ductritran8637]

Plus taxi and Tuktuk so untrustworthy rip off dishonest . I can ignore hustlers on the street but hotels where family stay are full of prostitutes , they allowed guest to bring prostitutes to theirs room with extra charge even 4 stars hotel where we stay , not an environment for family with kid . Thai still a country of sex tourism that is fact , bars , massage shop , street hookers everywhere all over tourist areas.

[@michaelparker4262]

There is no visa issue.Ive had one for 20 years there are no hurdles to jump through just follow the requirements.Once in a blue moon hurricanes in America are you serious there have been dozens in the last few months.Cant watch any more total BS

[@philippeschilliger6636]

I fully agree with your comment. I also had to face corruption for my mariage visa and every year for its renewal I feel like betting on my life. In my country which is France after 7 years a foreigner can get the French citizenship. In Thailand no matter if I am married to a Thaï woman, if I have children with her, If I have been living for 30 years in Thailand, if I employ thai people to make a business run I will always considered as a " farang". That's why I don't really invest time and energy in learning Thaï. I am " disposable" and I know it. I live in Thailand but a part of me is not present...

[@chipbuttytime3396]

This is the template for no nonsense informative videos, thank you

[@scottDchicago]

Insightful information provided in an honest manner! Great episode.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@MikeR2111]

I love your videos thanks for making these!

[@TheNarrowGate]

Thank you very much!

[@leeandersen9298]

WONDERFUL REVIEW! BEST OF ALL - LEE

[@bonneville1972]

We live cross the border in laos and often drive over to thailand for a dose of modernity. Compared to Laos, I find the driving in Thailand refreshingly good - people use lanes, use indicators, don’t tailgate at 100kph, and mostly aren’t so drunk they can’t stand up. Try driving in Vientiane for a week and you will feel a lot better about driving in Chiang Mai!

[@TheNarrowGate]

Wow 😯

[@JohnDuffy-bq8wg]

How does Laos compare with Thailand for costs ie rental of condo or villa, food transport, I'm looking to retire from UK for a decade or so, then coming back to UK if I make it to 65 /70 years or so, thanks for any info

[@paulgallagher2937]

I find it very hard to believe that any country has more drunk drivers than Thailand. Do the cars in Laos have built in beer tappers in the dashboard?

[@IndigoChiangmaiRealEstate]

Nice video, Tony. Glad you still like living here despite the "realities"... but I guess there are ups and downs in every place!

[@kagubirumeddy-tm7kl]

Hello sir ,first I'm appreciative for the tremendous work that you do about updating the world on the useful things they have to do when opting for Thailand

[@TheNarrowGate]

Thank you!!!!

[@patrickglennon7058]

Very down to earth and realistic information

[@Kevin60611]

Thankyou so much. I am at the point of making a life decision to move from Canada to Thailand. Was there in Dec/Jan. not for everyone, but I loved the vibe, the people, just the way of life. I think always being a foreigner, is the same as in any country, people moving to North America will always feel a bit of a feeling of , not prejudice, but not a local. Anyway, some very good points.

[@gregski806]

Great information.

[@francishailes60]

Great to hear Ur honesty and straight forward observations and advice mate about living in thailand

[@coryriley2294]

Finally a truthful video thank you

[@jean-charlesdesjardins6344]

Great tips! Thank you for your insight 👍👍

[@TheNarrowGate]

My pleasure!

[@gwitproductions5505]

Great content bro 🌍

[@TheDane824]

I've been binge watching many of your videos. Subscribed and 'like'.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@islandbreeze2102]

Wow you’re really courageous and I command you for telling it like it is!! Bravo 👏👏👏Nearly no one on KZbin dares to tell the truth and list the cons to any destination in fear of backlash. All they’re willing to expose are the positive aspects and how wonderful and perfect a destination is. If you’re an adult we all know that there’s no perfect place on this planet. You giving us the true facts both positive and negative is equivalent to us reading a contract before signing it. We can examine the terms and decide for ourselves if the advantages outweigh the disadvantages or vice and versa. Thank you so so much! Keep up the excellent work. Love your channel.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Thank you very much for the kind words!

[@MrLee-kh5tg]

Thanks! Great information!!!

[@TheNarrowGate]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dmystify1381]

...rock solid advice.

[@gwitproductions5505]

Great visa content 🌍

[@halojumper5105]

Very cool good description indeed!

[@TheNarrowGate]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it! 🇹🇭😊

[@garywayell7211]

Been all over Thailand dont think its to bad on the roads,you need to go to India thats absolutely crazy driving to the extreme,

[@IQD1million]

Yes, crazy, but it still flows. Crazy how that is. Cross the road at your own risk 😂

[@oneinchpunched3661]

Hello. I’ve been watching about ten of your videos lately and just subscribed. Not commenting on anything in particular but just want to say that your content is great and I really enjoy the calm pace of your videos and speech. A lot of the times I work and can’t see the video but you are doing a great job of being direct but very personal. Keep up what you are doing. 👍

[@TheNarrowGate]

Wow, thank you!

[@mauimixer6040]

Such an honest video!

[@jamaicanjjason]

Thanks for sharing

[@ht7832]

Very goid info ,enjoyed your video

[@TheNarrowGate]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@DrJohnPollard]

I like this direct straight-shooting type of review. There's a lot of "blue sky" content out there as well.

[@daidavies6210]

Ex Pats Don’t own the property or the land its built on, When you buy a Property you actually only own 40% of it and your not allowed to own the land just like in the Philippines… You have to have a Thai Wife or Business to own a Property , But you will Never own the land .. So don’t buy Property Rent It …

[@rogergr5019]

49% to be precise

[@jeff5001]

Good points, all of them.

[@colezg2947]

Good video 😊 I'm in the exploring stage in Thailand. Have a 6 month visa. I'm really enjoying it so far definitely different from New Zealand 😅

[@johnsealy831]

I've lived in Chiang Mai for 18 years now. An aspect of the "non confrontational Yes" that is humorous (until it happens to you!), regards asking for directions. If you ask a local where something is located, and they've never heard of it, they'll just tell you they don't know; but, if you ask them where something is located that they feel they should know - such as a famous temple, for instance - they may feel that not knowing would cause them to "lose face". So, they may pretend to know where it is, and confidently give you directions - probably figuring, in part, that they'll never see you again! I'm also surprised that no one has pointed out, there may be tax advantages for Americans who retire to Thailand, because of a tax treaty between the US and Thailand. It mostly applies to long time permanent residents who have certain types of income: large pensions, or tax deferred assets, such as a 401(k), annuity, or an IRA, for instance.

[@mariec6206]

New subscriber. Thanks for your insight.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Awesome, thank you for watching & subscribing! 🇹🇭☺️

[@frankf8134]

Great video !

[@TheNarrowGate]

😊👍❤️

[@ianpatrick23]

This is one of the best videos I’ve seen about expat life in Thailand

[@TheNarrowGate]

Thanks!!!

[@stevemorrisanamericaninasia]

The Thai Elite visa (I have 20 years visa) only goes for $25k USD. Divide that my 20 years and the fee is minimal. Each Immigration update is managed by third party at no additional expense. Airport fast-track, limo service (to/from), discounts on many items like golf, all included. Bank account opened - with no minimum balance required. For the money - Thai Elite visa is a great deal. Regarding safety - compare anywhere in Thailand to Chicago, NY Shitty, Lost Angels, etc ... Think about it!

[@sfm9]

Full Ack, I applied at 5th August. New prices will come on 1st Oct it will be 5 times higher for the 20y. Old prices (1 Mio BHT) only if you apply until 15th Sept.

[@marinlaomana7225]

What about the income tax? No one mention about the income tax in Thailand. How do you handle it?

[@stevemorrisanamericaninasia]

@@marinlaomana7225 TBD. Tax on money arriving into Thailand is the present issue with "details" yet to be determined...

[@marinlaomana7225]

@@stevemorrisanamericaninasia Thanks. I’m planning to retire in Thailand and the new tax system gave me a pause. Not sure if I have to pay twice when I’m already paid it in the US.

[@stevemorrisanamericaninasia]

@@marinlaomana7225 We await details on funds wired and/or deposited into Thai bank account. Earned income is not the issue as Thai and US have tax treaty so earned income not double taxed. The new tax levy is on all funds coming into Thai and deposited - like retirement funds to live off of, etc ... If you open or deposit money into a Thai bank account and are US citizen then it gets reported to US tax authority. You then trigger Thai tax.

[@dlhanson51]

The answer for a long term visa with few issues is the long term residence visa for wealthy pensioners. A 10 year visa (have to prove you still meet income and insurance requirements at 5 years) that has no 90 day reporting requirement.

[@5190csyt]

thank you for sharing

[@Yorker1998]

I've had fantasies about living there. I think the food alone is reason enough to just visit there. I think the hot weather would drive me crazy though.

[@angelofechter5666]

u get used to it. i lived there for a year and later i was wearing long black sweat pants and long black tshirts hahah, no issue. but when it was heat season i guess i didnt do that:D there were periods of the year where all of the backpackers stayed around air conditioners it was impossible to do anything outside

[@Volkbrecht]

@@angelofechter5666 You never get used to humid. Living in a somewhat hot region myself, the only real difference is that people are not immediately put off by seing someone with sweat stains on their clothes. But while you can indeed adapt to heat as such, once it gets humid it just feels all round disgusting wearing clothes and moving around outside.

[@paulgallagher2937]

I never really liked the Thai food. Much of it was so crazy spicy it would actually make me sick to eat it. And then the cheaper restaurants and street food was of highly questionable quality, safety and origin. Lots of good restaurants there, but the every day food is sketchy to say the least.

[@genegunnin2654]

Very well done.

[@saddq1]

Nice vid man. I live in Saudi Arabia now and insha Allah I will move to Yala City this year. My wife is Malay Muslim but has Thai passport and wants me to come live in Islamic Yala. I know some other Arabs there who work as Dawah teachers. Keep making your videos. I enjoy them

[@7rucus11]

I lived in Thailand for ten years. In 2014 I moved back to the USA. My wife(Thai) and two daughters (Thai) and I will be moving back to Thailand next summer full time. To each his own.

[@lisas44]

Thank you for letting us know some things to be aware of. This is about my third Thailand video today and the people who say they love it they can’t really explain why. Maybe you could put a video out kind of explaining the things you like about Thailand

[@TheNarrowGate]

Will do!

[@peterreston6478]

Probably the best presentation on Thailand I have seen. This guy obviously knows what he is talking about. None of the best place to retire BS so common on the web. The smoky season is a big problem and effectively rules out retirement for seniors.

[@kleerogers]

the biggest issue is Chiang Mai is the smoke, for many months a year it is a dangerous place to live, very bad for your health, this is the reason I would never live in Chiang Mai. Sad really, SE Asia has a huge problem with crop burning, it needs to be resolved through countries cooperating and working out a solution, it is getting worse

[@ma3stro681]

SE Asia is completely ignorant on environmental issues, and crop burning should be banned or trade restrictions imposed. They need to be taught about mulching and composting. Very lazy, ignorant farmers …

[@michaelwright5976]

I agree with you 100% everything you said.

[@indiandaeng]

With he heat up north now at 36-39C and heat index of 108F, it takes determination to stay during the hot months.

[@suresureYT]

I lived there for 7 years. It was and still is the best experience of my life and I always miss it. Once you get comfortable with all these things mentioned it’s the best place to live and will give you a fulfilling life. On the clothing theme, I had to buy work shirts for the office but the sleeves were always way too short so I spent the whole time rolling the cuffs back to disguise it!

[@BigTimTravels]

I'm in my mid 20s lol I kinda wanna go buy a little condo for a few months and just escape for 60 days

[@BigTimTravels]

I'm gonna take advantage of the yes factory. I'll be like my shady uncle that wants more but it super nice

[@firstnamelastname-im5iz]

I am retired and will be moving to Thailand within 45 days to live in a village near Nang Rong where my fiancée has a home. I have spent a lot of time there during the past 6 years I've been visiting and enjoy the rural life. I've learned that everything you said is very true. It will be a breath of fresh air for me too...except during the smoky season.😅

[@indiandaeng]

Your biggest hurdle will be opening a bank account in Thailand necessary for a long term visa. Get a registered marriage certificate first, a few banks may allow you to open an escrow account to use for the 400,000 baht minimum for a marriage visa with the certificate.

[@Jersey2WorldTravels]

Good luck on your move. Just don't get married too quickly. There is a big difference between visiting and spending time for years....and living with someone full time. I did the same thing and my ex changed once we were living together full time and married. People warned me and I thought they were crazy. Nope. They were right that I should've taken my time. If you stay in her home country then you have a better chance. Protect your finances also. Some women/their family can milk you dry without you even realizing it.

[@mauimixer6040]

Consider taking a 2 month vacation somewhere south (away from the smoke,phuhket?)?

[@jackdoe3889]

@@indiandaeng Common misconception which the Thai immigration happily passes around. By law the money does NOT need to be in a Thai bank.

[@DominanteMegaLit]

Greetings to The Narrow Gate Team and to all the Beautiful and Virtuous Thai and Asian Peoples! Actually I can give a proper explanation and a detour on point 5 of your very informative and priceless video: There are two types of thinking: one is personal, and the other is collective thinking. In the West, also in my country in Europe (with the slowest home-sale bureaucracy not only in Europe), where we are so individualistic and sometimes sharp and jumpy, and are kind of the opposite to the Asian people in ways of community and family thinking, which are very important - In Europe we talk with people about our personal business on the street, but for an example we don't talk about values or money even with our friends. I hope you catch my comparison. I think that the Thai Brothers and Sisters, a Virtuous Buddhist Nation, got it absolutely right and their way is a good way. Just as the Japanese people, as a matter of fact. The collective thinking is beneficial and very important!!! A little joke on the matter ofcourse: You, should agree more, Tony! 🙏🙏🙏😆😆😁 Thank you for the video, you are the best!

[@TheNarrowGate]

Thank you very much for the kind words! 🙂

[@j.t.5876]

Well said man.

[@wanhawkins3513]

Honest comments.. You are too kind, all true and more..

[@TheNarrowGate]

Thank you 🙏

[@neilsbaker9790]

One of the most honest reviews I have seen on KZbin about Thailand. It’s a great country and the people and food are lovely but its nice to see someone paint the cons as well as the pros. The weather (monsoons) and burning off are quite difficult if you suffer from Asthma, its common across Asia and I first experienced in Indonesia and it spoilt what would otherwise have been a great holiday.

[@rongreen4231]

We did a road trip through several plains states,and they did the field burning there as well was shocked at how bad the air was for miles.

[@randyh.6928]

I've visited CM four times but always in November, which as you say is one of the best months weather-wise. I am coming for six weeks starting in June, so I will get to experience the heat you are talking about! Please clear up the smokey skies for me, 555. Hopefully Songkran will wash it away.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Hopefully 🙏

[@monteblazilla7776]

I wanna leave the US, just searching for the right place to move to. Thank you for explaining what to expect💯

[@TheNarrowGate]

You’re welcome 😊

[@sonyjamia3051]

I am glad that you pointed out negatives of living in Thailand. Which are all true.

[@jamesankiewicz3141]

Good video amigo

[@amingaz]

been retired here 17 years now and all what you have stated is correct . I just accept it and adjust .

[@mcm95403]

Interesting about the accidents. Over my 10 trips there I've spent a total of almost a year and don't recall ever seeing an accident.

[@boranbkk4270]

I’ve lived here for 25 years. The visa process is a bit irritating but very easy to manage. Visa agents exist.

[@richardwashington8219]

Thanks!

[@TheNarrowGate]

Thank you very much, we really appreciate it!!! 😊🇹🇭

[@petyopetrov2048]

Thank you for the nice video .I was in Thailand and drove from Pattaya to Roi Et to Ayutthaya to other placed .I was so so nice .The problem is that when i came back to working , my mind still stuck in magic Thailand .And i will come back .....

[@TheNarrowGate]

I know that feeling

[@fluffy5534]

great video. Thank you. Question: does Amazon deliver to Thailand?

[@TheNarrowGate]

Yes they do

[@joeshmooo5327]

I grew up in a resort town, they to had different prices for residents versus vacationers

[@andrewhanson5942]

Thanks guy. You talked me out of it.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Glad I could help

[@jodyweikal7596]

Tony..DAMN. You hit another one out of the park with this video. I totally agree. Leaving next week after being here for 1 month. Got my retirement visa. Going home to sell and returning end 2023/beginning 2024. Already looking forward to my new life. I love here in CM. BUT, I will rely exclusively on public type of transport. Don’t want to be a statistic. Again, thanks again.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Thank you 🙏

[@thomasjohnrobinson4658]

When you get here rent don't buy,and if a girl wants you to build a house in her village on land you don't have to buy DONT.

[@mykalhenry]

@@thomasjohnrobinson4658 I seen this go bad with friends, strangers. Consider any investment GONE. And if you get a return well you hit a bit of a lottery.

[@MonkeyHero]

​@@mykalhenrymay i ask more on why you say any investments are to be considered gone? I thought foreigners were doing better for themselves lately with buying houses out there.

[@thomasjohnrobinson4658]

@@MonkeyHero you read things like people are doing well on investments BUT find one except an agent of some sort who takes money in advance and has someone in a bank and immigration who will do short cuts for you at an undesclosed price which only the agent knows.I know people in Thailand that have property for sale and can't even get a viewing.

[@Mike-du1dc]

Good video & good for you for telling it like it really is not a rose colored versions like so many do. Yes it is great & we love it too. But as you said there are tough hurdles/conditions. You probably know this but....A really tough thing to accept is a Thai man can marry a falang woman & she will get Thai citizenship quickly & not need to jump any hurdles at all. Quite different than a Thai woman marrying a falang husband who will need to jump hurdles till the day he dies unless he succeeds in the rough selective road of Thai citizenship on his own

[@tahnaiyarussell]

I'm concerned about the driving too. My friends brother died in Thailand, he was on a moped and got into an accident.

[@anthonywirth9936]

Chiang Mai is the place. If I was to ever retire in Thailand it would be there. Very honest awesome vid thank you.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@MrEye4get]

Frequent changes with VISA requirements are indeed a challenge, especially when it comes to a long-term planning. The older I get, the more I worry Thailand will make things (VISAs) too difficult to remain in the country. Rumored requirements for health insurance worrisome.

[@Anomalyy666]

Wtf are they doing this now?

[@martypoll]

@@Anomalyy666No they are not. One comment at a news conference that has fed the imagination of fragile expats for a couple of weeks now.

[@barnabyzelman]

@@Anomalyy666 Thailand has always been an insular country, the only one never invaded and occupied by a foreign country. Thais are for Thais, simple as that. They want you to visit on holiday, spend all your money and then go home. They don't like you living there long term, hence they make long term visas a hassle, and having to report to immigration every 90 days is, I imagine, like visiting a probation officer.

[@guygourley2411]

I lived in Chiang Mai for 2 years and overall found it to be quite enjoyable. All of your comments are correct, and the chance of an accident was one reason I left as I could feel the clock ticking down (I did run into the back of a car with my scooter once, not a good feeling but fortunately no physical damage). I attempted to learn Thai was had conquered the alphabet and was able to read and write some, but speaking with the correct tones is so very difficult, and listening at full speed, well, I pretty much figured I would never be fluent, 555. I'm back in the US now, and I do at times miss Thailand. I would run up to Phayao for a few days and enjoy the much more laid back feeling, as well as (at the time) very few farangs. Great road to ride up. Anyways, the gov't certainly makes the visa process difficult, although at least now the 90 day can be done online I believe. The other thing you didn't mention is health insurance, as it is not always cheap, and I have heard after your reach 70 years in age it becomes quite difficult to get. And that's if someone will help you enough to get to the hospital. I think you're more likely to die just waiting for an ambulance that from medical care. But I enjoyed the video and the honesty!!

[@mixalis6168]

Visa difficult, thats ridiculous !!

[@guygourley2411]

@@mixalis6168 So you want to retire at age 49 in Thailand. Given the current visa regulations, I'm happy you think a long term visa is easy.

[@MonkeyHero]

Hi, thanks for sharing your take. Do you have opinions on getting throigh the burning seasons?

[@guygourley2411]

@@MonkeyHero For myself, I just toughed it out because I did not experience any respiratory issues, although a good mask is recommended. Otherwise the consensus is to either relocate, usually down to like Cha Am or one of the islands, or to just stay and suck in the smoke and particulates. Relocating isn't always easy and could be a bit expensive unless you plan for it. One problem with the smoke is that it might be not so bad today, so you think "Hmm, I can handle this" and then it is terrible the entire next week. It is not a constant. Best way to avoid it is relocate, but if not, wear a good mask when going outside, like an n95 rate.

[@TheThaiLanguage]

The visa problem was a problem when I went there the first time in 1979... still a pain in the bottom today. I'd like to see this modernized, streamlined and ... I don't know.... just fixed.

[@priortokaraew7569]

Really? It was a problem back then?

[@dennynisevic7848]

1979 , whaaaat . So how old you are now, 157 , hahaaaa

[@lightbox1974]

I totally agree

[@Badhans2007]

Thanks for sharing brother. I wanna stay there for 3 months, and hope on opening an American BBQ Restaurant there eventually.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Nice!!!

[@LabRat6619]

Thailand is awesome, you just have to mindful of the pitfalls.

[@amswestyorkshire8048]

As I'm Thai I can say all those you says are correct. However to say thank you in Thai for man is Korb Khun krub not kha at the end.

[@OhShunz]

Totally digging the frequency of the videos. I know they take a ton of time and might not always be able to flow out at the same rate but i really appreciate being able to see one of my most beloved countries in the world almost in real time. Please enjoy the Thai Iced Coffee coming your way my friend, kop khun krap

[@TheNarrowGate]

Thank you very much!!!!!!!! Truly appreciated!

[@okbilly1]

Can you cover off how to check in visa every 90 days online

[@johnnielson4341]

6:00 Safety comes last??? One time in Sattahip I passed a series of small shops. One guy was using a cutting torch to cut a large piece of metal. He was standing on the metal wearing flip flops, no eye protection and cutting the sheet down the middle between his legs!

[@tinahalim6589]

Greetings from Canada, just discovered your video here, have you been to Malaysia and if so, what would be your opinion about retirement there compared to Thailand? We're planning on doing some research on retiring in Thailand or snowbirding if that's what you call it here

[@TheNarrowGate]

Hello. We have never been to Malaysia, so can’t help with that. Best of luck on your research! 🇹🇭 😊

[@sim5247]

I think for Malaysia ' s Population it is quite " open- minded": u have people with chinese roots, indian roots and ofc the local malaysian tribe people with all type of religions: all living together. Me, as a white caucasian, i felt is was a more international Flair compared to China, Japan korea or Thailand .

[@krisalasky6897]

Hello, I love all your videos and information. I just wanted to add that I am from Australia and lived in the states for 15 years and guess what? I was always the foreigner. I was treated different and always reminded that I was an AUstralian. I hated the weather in the states so many months of cold. The weather here in OZ has no 4 seasons and can be unpreditable and crazy. We will be moving to Chiang Mai in Sept. We spent 8 weeks in the old city and I cooked and went shopping in the markets and the women helped me so much. They realized that I was making noodle soups and when I went to shop they had made a tray with all the ingredients I would need. How lovely were they. As for the clothes I had some made not because I am big but wanted a special kind of design and it was so cheap. Like $6.00 for a dress. So anytime you leave your own country there always will be differences. I know that you love it there and was just giving a heads up. hope to see you there.

[@kevinreily2529]

You are an Australian. In Thailand I will never be a local, so what. If I moved to Oz they would always say I was the American.

[@kevinreily2529]

Once a year I go to Chaeng Wattana, with the required documents, and get my Retirement Visa. Thailand would be overrun with foreigners if they made it any easier. In Malaysia they give you a 5 year visa. If they did that in Thailand it would be decimated, because every unhappy man living in the West would flock to Siam. No place is perfect, but Thailand is a good place to be for people who appreciate it.

[@willsmith39]

I see no reason to believe that at all. As you point out it hasn't caused issues in Malaysia which by many objective measures is a better place to retire than Thailand anyway. As I understand it even if you pay up for the Elite visa you are still forced to do this 90 day reporting thing which is nuts. I had looked at retiring in Thailand but the visa hassle is a major turn off for me. So it'll be Malaysia most likely if I decide to actually leave HK where I got pernanent residency after 7 years so don't have to go through any immigration hurdles and haven't for 25 years now.

[@sfm9]

The 90 day online reporting for Thai Elite members is mandantory only if you stay there more than 90 days. Thailand has a concept which people they like to be there - Europe gave up long time ago.@@willsmith39

[@limitlesspotential9599]

02:00 I’m from NYC and living in Turkey. They drive insane here brother. Thanks for the video btw.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Thanks for watching!

[@karlmm8738]

I have been thinking of this country for a long time. Peacefull and has family values and laws.

[@jackdoe3889]

Laws? They are there just to serve as a basis for the police to compile a price list for how much it cost in bribes to get away with breaking them. You are so far off base that I urge you to do proper research. I lived there for 14y.

[@2kkto2]

Dual pricing: In USA a local county golf course has 2 prices, one for locals.. a State university is much more expensive for people out of state... the dual pricing is there, it just doesn't look exactly the same... ok, I can go on abt other points too, imagine being a Thai wanting to live in USA? What we have to do is cheap and easy in comparison.. I use an agent but for many years did my own visa - and yes, I speak Thai and have lived many years in a village and I am well accepted and assimilated... but you get back what you give out... BUT yes yes yes to your conclusion... the people and culture and language are fun and wonderful and I would never want to live elsewhere...

[@TheNarrowGate]

❤️👍🇹🇭

[@keithd1219]

Riding a scooter in Thailand....constantly scooters driving the wrong way on one way streets...constantly and they don't yield to you driving the correct way. Making turns, don't leave any space....I had a scooter fly by me on my left just a millisecond prior to me turning ..I had my signal on and was slowing to turn...they are very aggressive and thats minus any alcohol influence. If a car flashes its lights at you, they aren't telling you to go ahead, they're saying "get out of my way or ill run you over!"

[@stephenhalloway6633]

I've spent many years in Asia from the 70s on,walk when you can,in hot weather get everything done by 11am,beware of slippery tiles!,hone your intuition, learn the language, drink in moderation and give Cambodia a go!!

[@Pureexhiliration]

2:00 Traffic is not just an issue if you're driving, everytime I have been in Bangkok and had to cross the street, I have always felt like I was going to end up being roadkill

[@monkichiii9999]

I am a first generation immigrant to the US. Some of the (cultural) challenges mentioned here are exactly what me and parents had to go through. IMHO, it's not Thailand. It's just difference in culture.

[@srgba244]

True! 👍

[@VideoAssociates]

Love Thailand, been on many Motorcycle taxis there, but prefer Bolt or Buses. I got a bus up to Nakhon Ratchasima from Pattaya,and was good value travel really

[@catherinechen8144]

How did you know where to stay when you first moved to Thailand. I would like to come and stay for three months, would you be able to provide some suggestions. Thanks.

[@TheNarrowGate]

Get an Air BnB for 3 months. That might be your best and most comfortable option.

[@ramsoncole4605]

You can get an Elite Thai visa for $ for up to 20 years and not have to go through this at all...comes with car service to and from the airport, VIP status at the airport (no lines), unlimited reentry...pretty good deal if you can afford it...it's not cheap.