5 Reasons that Foreigners are Leaving THAILAND in 2024

In this video I discuss the 5 main reasons why many of my friends in Thailand ultimately decided to leave and return to their home countries.
✅ SUBSCRIBE & JOIN TO BE A MEMBER: / @thebangkokguide
SUPPORT 💵
🟢 Buy me a cup of coffee: www.buymeacoffee.com/ajarncal
🌍 Moving to Thailand Consultation: [e-mail]
🔗 Services I use:
My Health Insurance (long-term residency): onlineapplication.pacificcros...
My Travel Insurance (for travel and short term residency): safetywing.com/?referenceID=2...
How I transfer money internationally: wise.prf.hn/click/camref:1011...
My VPN: go.nordvpn.net/SH6JS
FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA
🌐 Instagram: / ajarncal
🌐 Tiktok: / ajarn.cal
Why I moved to Thailand?
• I left the WEST and mo...
My cost of living in Bangkok
• Living in Bangkok on $...
29 Thailand Tips
• 29 things I wish I kne...
Thailand Condo Rental Guide
• Renting a condo in Ban...
Chapters
Intro 0:00
Outsider 0:47
Legal uncertainty 2:40
Property ownership 3:15
Salaries and work 4:45
Social safety nets 5:26
Education system 5:37
Pensions 6:27
Health Insurance 7:02
Having a family 7:05
Conclusion 7:30
Attributions
Music from #InAudio: inaudio.org/
Track Name: Cinematic Documentary Neo Classic by Infraction [No Copyright Music] / The Road

[@thebangkokguide]

สังเกตว่าคนไทยบางคนคิดว่าคลิปนี้เป็นการร้องเรียนหรือว่าเราขอสิทธิ์เช่นเดียวกับคนไทย นี่เป็นความเข้าใจผิดของวิดีโอ ฝรั่งจำนวนมากไม่คุ้นเคยกับการใช้ชีวิตในประเทศไทย วิดีโอนี้จะอธิบายว่าทำไมชาวต่างชาติบางคนจึงลาออกหลังจากผ่านไปหลายปี ในวิดีโอผมบอกจริงๆว่าเห็นด้วยกับนโยบายที่เป็นประโยชน์ต่อคนไทยเพราะนี่คือประเทศไทย หวังว่าคุณจะมีวันที่ดี!

[@tomasprilepok4824]

you will never be able to be thai or have all thai laws as thais have it the same in eu or usa. 😊

[@a1lyhall]

Thai identity is one thing. But in buddhism, the main teaching is noself, which invites a notion of oneness/emptiness/silence. Also, ‘thai’ literally means ‘free’. So bear this in mind when trying to combine with the free’s upbringing and mindset of how they view the world.

[@User17213]

Asian countries are cunning and discriminatory countries. On the contrary, Asians like me who go to Europe are treated the same as Europeans. What a shame.

[@patnyabangkok7751]

Totally agree with everything, ive been coming 20 years and recently retired over a year ago and living in Bangkok, from the UK, it can be frustrating being treated as a tourist, but i feel more of a foreign in my hometown of London than I do here, maybe I will return to the uk when im in my 70s, but the cost is frightening in UK, im living here over half the cost of London, i have no plans to buy property in Thailand as its cheaper to rent and can move around more easily, i intend to stay single and enjoy my years while I can.

[@thebangkokguide]

I agree with your perspective. I think it’s a great place for retirement.

[@user-kf7wm6kt6o]

I am from the UK, I left the country 14 years ago to live in the Philippines, I would not retire to Thailand because you don't receive your annual state pension increase. Here in the Philippines you do...

[@jurgschupbach3059]

I am looking for a rich Thai Lady who likes to be in a demanding relationship with a Boksida

[@katjaxxx7353]

I love Thailand. The chaos etc. I love London but Zone 3 is now £438 per week for 32 sqm. Crazy!

[@jimshelley8831]

I live in Bangkok, but I've never felt a foreigner in the UK. Why do you feel more like a foreigner back home?

[@user-zt7cj7my5l]

I left the UK three years ago and relocated to Issan at 62 years old,I set a budget of 30,000 baht a month, and apart from an initial outlay, new Honda wave, etc keeping within this budget has been achievable , I have a separate budget for trips, holidays, I could never enjoy a lifestyle in the UK all quality of life, as I do here in Thailand Saying that I don't drink or go to bars or have expensive hobbies but live a thai lifestyle enjoying the natural world, eat natural healthy foods, and working out most day's i try and keep spending to 500 baht a day its not easy but is poosible if you adopt the "Thai way "

[@thebangkokguide]

That is a great perspective. I actually lived on a similar budget in Bangkok back in 2019. It was very enjoyable as well. I'm not a big drinker either. I think if you cut out nightlife, the experience of living in Thailand changes entirely. Thanks for the comment!

[@kul_thum]

I am local person i m very happy to live in Thailand i hav no idea to find another place bcos i think most things here is suitable for me and my behavior. Many things can be chosen by myself. Bad thing i can skip avoid them and looking how to improve to be better. So i think many people can enjoy living here and thai people welcome everyone who is good people no matter where u from. 🎉🎉😊😊

[@marcoo1980]

not enough to live with 30 k

[@guymandudely324]

Will you slaughter a chicken or pig if you have a special guest? Do you enjoy eating frogs and rats? That's the Thai way in Issan.

[@anna_m59]

Give us feed back in another 5 years.. would be interesting

[@markmorris4979]

I am 54 and retiring to thailand soon and i actually feel like a foreigner here in england most of the big cities in uk are being flooded with people from other countries,dont get me wrong i have a lot of compassion for people who are forced to flee their country but we are a small island and our resources only stretch so far and the nhs is struggling so for me it is an easy move

[@thebangkokguide]

I understand. I think there are similar feelings in many countries, including here in Thailand! I always try to consider how people here think about things as well. Cheers and best of luck with the move!

[@markmorris4979]

@thebangkokguide I think the biggest difference is if you go to thailand you have to pay for healthcare unlike uk where you can claim for everything having never paid into the system ,I cannot wait to move over there I would rather feel like a foreigner in a friendly country than feel like one in my own

[@thebangkokguide]

It’s a great place to live. I strongly recommend it, especially for retirees as you won’t actually have any problems with most of the issues that I discuss in this video. Overall I just try to give a complete picture for viewers so that they can have as much information as possible to make a decision. Cheers and good luck with the move!

[@mchaisoccer]

Try learning to speak Thai to the locals and you will be surprised how inclusive they would embrace you to their circle. Language is the biggest barrier between Thais and foreigners including Farang, Chinese, Japanese, etc from being tied and socialized. I am a Thai by the way.

[@thebangkokguide]

I definitely agree. I can speak some Thai as well and it is definitely helpful! Cheers!

[@hclau218]

​@@thebangkokguideSome Thai.. jeez.. Thai is a very easy language to learn. After 7byears, I am surprised.

[@diyambarcil2310]

they would forgive badly spoken thai

[@kombatpapi7738]

I agree. Learn the language and you will be ok

[@WanderlustReports]

I am a true lover of Thailand and for many years I have watched countless videos and followed countless KZbinrs in Thailand. I even have myself a lot of videos of Thailand on my channel. I can therefore be described as a connoisseur of the country and yet in your video, I learned a lot of things, it's really top notch , thank you very much! New subscriber, here...

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you very much for the kind words! Cheers!

[@VeteranxxxINF]

As a senior Canadian myself living in Thailand my initial reaction was just another whiner. However after listening carefully what you said made a lot of sense. For me personally a lot of the issues mentioned does not affect me, but they sure would affect somebody younger. Just some issues that I disagree with. Healthcare in Canada is not free. My average tax in Canada while working was 43%. This is what pays for healthcare. Also my CPP plus OAS is only $780 a month. Some tips tol feeling more inclusive in Thailand. Learn to speak the language. IK know it is not easy but you immediately get more respect from Thais. Dont always hang out with Ex pats. Try to integrate with Thais. SWell done young fellar. Good sound logic and nicely presented

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for the kind words. I try to avoid becoming a whiner, so I'm glad it didn't come across as such. I have the freedom to choose where I live and work relatively freely... in my view, whining and complaining is somewhat delusional in terms of the reality for most people in the world. I agree with your perspective on taxes as well. I computed the math on it, and it is much more costly as you mention... until family costs come into the equation. That has normally been the main factor that pushes younger expats to leave in my experience. Totally agree with learning the language and cultural norms as well. I can speak some Thai, but I should learn more. Cheers!

[@MyBelch]

You might die waiting for your "free" healthcare in Canada.

[@martyb4404]

Well presented video but not spot on about the “free healthcare” comment. Nothing is free. It’s paid by you the taxpayer in the form of insane taxes. I always lol when people talk about free things from their government but then compare their marginal tax rates. Their taxes are crazy high. Nothing is free. Politicians have brainwashed people into viewing that way as some sort of cloak of nobility.

[@insightwisdom7022]

Young expats think like him, which is true , however if they,he,she does not care what the government has some rules to segregate Thai and expats ,you can live here for good untill you pass away,cause that's the way it is, minor or tiny thing ,so don't think much.Thais wellcome everyone on earth to live here .In the old days ,our king 5th,had to hire the Danishes to work in Navy Defense force and got to the highest rank as The Commander in Chief , Royal Thai Navy ,I as Thai Navy Admiral,now retired,had to pay respect to him at The Navy Chapel in Copenhagen, Denmark,and there is his photo at the Meeting room ,RTN HQ., so don't get yourself in the strong,too much identity that make your life unhappy. Be nutrual.

[@garyzies3486]

how do you handle healthcare in Thailand?

[@terryj3385]

Makes more financial sense to retire here than to come here to live here while you are young with family.

[@deanpapadopoulos3314]

Such a good point.

[@sebastianhamilton5892]

That's for sure. I would *never* raise a child in a monoculture place like Thailand. Malaysia, yes, but not Thailand.

[@patrykstrach4469]

I don’t mind… I’m a Outsider in any Country.

[@thebangkokguide]

This is true. I think it mostly bothers people with families who pay taxes though.

[@eddyk564]

I lived in Thailand for 7 years and agree 100% with the list. For me, one huge factor was concern about how I was going to pay for retirement with no (or very little) pension in Thailand. Another reason was that I found that after a number of years, the "glow" of Thailand sort of wore off. I had been to and lived in many of the places I had wanted, I had seen a good chunk of the country, and I know the Thai language very well and conversed with locals everyday. Everywhere I went in the country started to just look the same with the same foods, people with similar outlooks on life, etc. I still love Thailand- I just don't want to be there full time anymore.

[@thebangkokguide]

I agree with the comment about the "glow". To some extent, I think this occurs in most places... new and exciting becomes routine and boring, and that will always start to change your priorities and perspectives. Thanks for the input!

[@philliproberts7294]

Exactly mate fantastic holiday maybe even a few months a year but then go home

[@Hmmm313]

Still better then west bullshit and crazy inflation…

[@regnorse]

how does one pick up the language? classes?

[@eddyk564]

@@regnorse I didn't do any classes. I paid for a program called Learn Thai Podcast and used a book called "Colloquial Thai". I practised speaking the phrases I learned as much ass possible and I only learned what I thought I might use. Once I got a basic ability, I learned to read Thai which really helped me improve out of sight.

[@valerielaville1337]

You are entitled to your opinions, but be prepared to be surprised. Canada is going downhill fast. I'm in Quebec and perhaps it's not the same everywhere, but we decided to leave Canada as things are not evolving the way we want. Schooling is given by unqualified people, public healthcare is getting disastrous, housing is high, lots of day-to-day things are less and less affordable... Good luck to you, and may you find happiness where you're going.

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for the input. I’m giving it a lot of thought. I’ve heard similar opinions from other friends as well so I appreciate the insight. It’s been over 4 years since I was in Canada and plan to go visit to check it out in a couple of months. Maybe it will change my mind!

[@sokaiya1]

@@thebangkokguideit will change. Canada is done.

[@sebastianhamilton5892]

Yes, Canada is indeed doomed. Just yesterday, I read that the federal government spent CAD$100,000,000 (~2,700,000,000THB) to house 5,000 illegal immigrants in Niagara Falls hotel rooms between Feb 2023 and Feb 2024. Insanity ...

[@jglee6721]

I'm in the US but a huge fan of Canada. I think the situation there is very bleak. Canada is being squeezed into communism judging from the housing prices which means nobody can afford it, thus, only the rich or the poor, no middle class. Even Tucker Carlson whose ancestors were Canadians joked that the US should invade and liberate Canada as we don't want a Cuba next to us. lol

[@msbrownbeast]

Not many people want to stay in Quebec anyway, with low pay, high taxes and all that political and language bullshit.

[@ellvtv2314]

Glad you removed the background music. It makes a much better viewing experience.

[@thebangkokguide]

Yessir. I saw your comment…went back and watched and totally agreed. Thanks for the input! Very helpful

[@sebastianhamilton5892]

Glad you did this. Post-production music (in KZbin videos or Hollywood movies) is usually counterproductive. Think of how many films James Horner ruined ("Storm of the Century" is a perfect example).

[@mickcantana1830]

Currently sitting on kaosan rd, feeling good about locking-in a cute apartment next to the park in which you sit. As I laid in bed last night listening to the pounding techno music until at least 4am, I smile once again as I thought about the "no happy median" theory. My life exists on 50 isolated acres, 10 miles from the Canadian border in northern Maine. Seldomly, I may be awakened by my dog responding to a pack of howling coyotes. It seems like many of us are searching for comaraderie, something that is lacking in the US, but is in abundance here in Thailand. Notwithstanding the fact that I can chat with more friendly women here in one day than in the 10 years since becoming a widower (and I'm not counting any of the endless number of them selling their services), family is the only thing that matters in life. Regardless, being a snowbird in thailand is leaps and bounds above being one in God's Florida Waiting Room.

[@thebangkokguide]

That's a good writeup! I definitely recommend living near a park. It is a nice break from the busy concrete jungle. I definitely agree with you about the difference in social comaraderie. The atomized world of the west can feel very isolating. Not exactly the norm in human evolution. I think that living in both places can make for the happiest median, as it brings you to appreciate both much more. Cheers!

[@martyb4404]

At 53 I still love Khao San Rd. Incredible nostalgia for me as it’s the first place I stepped foot onto 30 years ago when I landed at Don Muang for the first time. Nothing like a $6 a night private room with a fan at 23!!!

[@keepitreal1547]

The way to enjoy Thailand is to holiday there while working in your home country, building up your social security pension. Then when & only if you have your finances in order to retire in Thailand for the rest of your days...then do so. The main reasons expats move back to their home countries, is ultimately down to money reasons.

[@thebangkokguide]

This seems like a very reasonable approach. Thanks for the input!

[@deanpapadopoulos3314]

This is exactly right.

[@jglee6721]

Yep. Simply because the salary is low in Thailand thus you cannot build up your net worth unless you have a business which you have to deal with other problems like the language and jealousy. With this correct method, when you retire in Thailand, you'll enjoy the 50% cost of living reduction. In addition, Thai medical system is decent enough for the retirees.

[@dewberry3043]

I really thought that's what the expats are doing.

[@kevo8498]

Well said!!!

[@AnonChiranukulpipat]

In the attitude of most Thai people, it is exactly as you said. Because we think and welcoming you as guests tourist visiting our home. Not our fellow countrymen. The reason is that Thailand is still a developing country in terms of society and economy. Although the utility infrastructure is outstanding But you can see that it is concentrated in Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, Phuket. If you think about the percentage, it might be only 10-20% out of the total of 76 provinces that we have. And although many cities are developing, you can clearly see that none is as developed as Bangkok. Even the development of cities like Pattaya and Chiang Mai has started similar to Bangkok but is still very far apart. Even in Bangkok, if you've ever been to the west side of the Chao Phraya River, it's very far from the east side and the city center. Therefore, Thailand still needs a lot of time, maybe 10 years at least, to develop into a developed country. Being a developed country will affect the attitude of the population that Living together between people of the same nation and foreigners will narrow the gap. You come from a high-income country. A lot of your money in a country with hundreds of thousands of living expenses. Compared to developing countries where incomes are low and life security has not yet developed to the point of having a retirement welfare system. Sometimes foreign tourists are annoyed by the fact that some service fees are more expensive than Thai people. But let you understand that what we charge is a normal rate. But the rate that Thai people pay to visit tourist attractions It is to encourage Thai people to travel within the country in order to reduce inflation. and the baht currency goes abroad. It will take at least another 5-10 years for continuous improvement in the attitude Thai people are being taught and trained. We are proud that our country has never been colonized since its inception. This is our land for Thai people. Our country used to be a country or state that allowed many foreigners to come and live in this land while it's was Kingdom of Siam. But they came to cause Siam to lose almost half of its territory. If you understand the meaning of the Thai national anthem song. You will also understand why Thai people have to stand still twice at the same time every day and so proud born to be Thai citizens. It takes a lot of time to make important decisions on granting LTR visas or even allowing green card citizenship for foreigners. But know that we Thais never mind if anyone comes to live with us. But because the development of our country is not yet ready to reach that point. Because the social inequality is now too great between the very rich and the very poor, people with very high levels of education and people without the opportunity for a high-skilled education. that are used to pursue a career with a very high income The scary thing in Thai people's minds about being a country that allows many foreigners to live is the flow of immigration from around our neighbor countries. Or people from far away countries come in too much and cannot control the situation either. livelihoods, inflation, housing shortages And the most important thing is that the job was stolen. This causes a loss of income to support family members, and crime increases until it is uncontrollable. Just like many developed countries are facing right now. But from this year onwards, our country will open-minded begin to embrace and permit the concept of digital nomad or expat more. It will be seen from the country's leaders opening LTR visa and Highly skills work permit, Retirement visa, expanding the number of days for specialized tourists such as coming to study cooking, coming to practice Muay Thai, ect., as Thailand increases the granting of visas. free with more country friendship. Or even opening opportunities for investors to join in the development of many industries that Thailand is focusing on, which we call new s-curve and sustainable development.😂

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for the input. I respect the values and culture of Thailand. And I agree with your opinions about development. Actually Thailand needs to be very careful about changing rules around citizenship and ownership. I don't recommend it. Thailand would quickly be bought and owned by people from much wealthier countries, and have even more migration from poorer neighboring countries. There are a lot of risks in that. This video is mostly about why friends of mine have decided to leave after living here for many years. I am not advocating for any changes. That is for Thai people to decide.

[@stumbras2000]

10 years, they said it 20 years ago. It will take another 30... if ever. Just look at horrible education system.

[@asiandetective4998]

I think it is reasonable that Thais are charged less at National sites such as National Parks and Temples, they pay tax for the upkeep of these assets whereas foreigners don’t.

[@thebangkokguide]

@asiandetective4998 I’m actually only talking about foreigners that pay taxes in Thailand. As I mentioned, a foreigner that lives and works in Thailand (and pays taxes) is treated exactly the same as a tourist that steps off the plane.

[@thumtlnguyen3626]

@Anon I suggest that you should never use the phrase " We are proud that we have never been colonized". Writing such phrase It looks like the West is something Asians have to be fear of and they had the right to go around the globe to colonize other countries. The true act of western colonization is nothing but thieves and robbers. It's true that the West developed way before Asian countries since 16 century due to their free and progressive thinking and their talents of technologies.

[@anthonytr9685]

Thank you for your video. Also we have big difference in mentality

[@thebangkokguide]

Cheers. Thanks for the kind words and all good!

[@marcp108]

Totally agree with everything you say. It is becoming ridiculously expensive for people to live in places like Sydney - and that's why many turn to living in Thailand. Unfortunately, for many, it doesn't always work out. As a side note, having a Thai ID or Drivers license helps to get a 'locals' price to many Wats, zoos etc.

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for the kind words. I think Sydney is now ranked as the most expensive city in the world. Although in more recent experiences, most seem to just charge the foreigner price across the board. Cheers!

[@valuetraveler2026]

Oh yeh important to get into the zoo cheap 😂

[@regnorse]

ikr lol@@valuetraveler2026

[@carstensanonym7527]

how can a foreigner get a Thai ID?

[@grantr7682]

This is really high quality content, bro. I've been living here in BKK over 2 years and I'm in a similar demographic as you so I enjoy these videos. Most of the other content is marketing gurus or redpill pickup coaches or retirees.

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for the kind words. I've seen this type of content as well. I think the longer you stay here, the less appealing this type of thinking becomes. Cheers!

[@taterrhead]

almost everything you listed as negatives are quickly becoming true in some western countries such as Canada (already super long waits for that 'free' healthcare && with current immigration levels it's quite possible the entire 'free' healthcare system collapses on itself)

[@thebangkokguide]

I have heard this as well. I definitely like the speed of the healthcare system in Thailand. The public-private model seems to work fairly well.

[@sborgum]

German healthcare has been a nightmear for a century and becoming worse. Many dont even like going to doctors because of this. Just when its very serious....

[@Openeyesopenheart42]

All western countries with “free” healthcare, uk, Canada, Australia (my home) have seriously long waiting times for the most basic of needs , most are on the verge of Collapse, and if you desire a quicker outcome you must pay through the nose. I am shifting to Thailand this year, cannot wait.

[@ChristinaLee_SkyJournal]

That’s reasonable to think about these factors before moving to Thailand. Thanks for sharing ❤

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you for the kind words!

[@sunrise-yq3dy]

Foreigners in Thailand are underdogs. Second or third class people. you cannot own land, a business, a villa without a human/company in Thai name. A condo is what you can own 100%. Look at Brazil with different climate zones. Here one can own, land, a villa, a business 100%. Thailand is far away from that like other countries in Asia. No foreigners can own land property in Japan, China and the Philippines and more countries on the list. Asia is ethocentrical also concerning property.

[@makmcqueen8634]

Very good video mate. I have a young family and am currently facing this decision.

[@thebangkokguide]

Cheers. It's a tough decision.

[@jimb3093]

That why I’m considering the part time expat life. Still have a home base in the US.

[@thebangkokguide]

I think this can make a lot of sense if you don't have location dependent work commitments.

[@MundoIorio]

For me, I like the slow travel and live pure Farang - gringo - americano where ever I am. I love standing out without trying. I love fighting with vendors trying to over change me. It is really fun!

[@talibanairport1544]

Typical

[@thebangkokguide]

It definitely adds some drama to life!

[@regnorse]

lol

[@sebastianhamilton5892]

Good strategy. Better to laugh at something than to curse it.

[@philread7668]

I've been in Th 13 years now. I don't plan to leave. But I would cite the heat. It is relentless. I dream of a Mediterranean climate.

[@thebangkokguide]

It's definitely hot. That being said, my country is way too cold so I never complain about heat here haha

[@daruman8265]

I have lived in two Mediterranean countries over last 9 years, but move to Thailand. South East Asia climate is tough all around the year, but in Med the summers are much hotter than Thailand and winters suck....

[@thediplomat3137]

​@@daruman8265which Mediterranean country has the most ideal climate in your view?

[@vaska1999]

​@@thediplomat3137Probably Cyprus, the Turkish coast facing Cyprus, Greece, parts of Spain (Majorca), and Sicily. Still, I lived in Malta for 7 years, and the houses all across the Mediterranean are built to keep them as cool as possible during the hot summers. As a result, they can be freezing cold in winter time and extremely difficult (impossible) to heat. The Northern coast of Africa -- Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria) may be quite pleasant during winter months as they have the Sahara in their backyard to keep them warm.

[@Somchai007]

You summed it up very well. I lived in Thailand for over 10 years, had a family and paid taxes. By the 10th year being treated as a dumb tourist wherever I went became frustrating. It's important to be as fluent in the Thai language as possible to neutralise the situation and really connect with the locals. Otherwise, you are just a strange alien to them.

[@thebangkokguide]

I agree. Learning the language is critical, which is very reasonable. It's tricky living in a country with mass tourism as it's hard to blame anybody for thinking you're just another tourist! It's a fair assumption for people to make. Hope life back home is going well!

[@sebastianhamilton5892]

I don't think most Thais are particularly endeared by a farang learning their language. You'll always be just an outsider, and your first argument with one will be your last. Besides, their lingo is useless outside of Thailand.

[@westmaui]

Did the whole move back from Thailand a year ago for the same reasons. However raising kids and working has its own toll as it is increasingly difficult to stay in shape. Looking forward to having me time again in Thailand.

[@thebangkokguide]

Yeah, it’s a difficult decision to make! Planning to move back to Thailand?

[@westmaui]

@@thebangkokguide Not in the near future, need to keep growing our business, buying a few more properties, and hopefully later on down the road we can relax. Too much opportunity to miss out on if we stayed in Thailand!

[@thebangkokguide]

Sounds like a good plan! Cheers

[@Michibz57]

You get to the point succinctly! Really great video! I live in Bangkok and love Thailand. But I also have a house in Malaysia and am now looking at Vietnam. You summarized the housing situation well. I offer my apartments on Booking, 50% of them are rented to tourists, but it could be much better

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank for the kind words! Hope the rental business is going well!

[@regnorse]

why not buy Thailand? no customers?

[@user-oh6qh8kc1v]

ถ้ามีปัญหายุ่งยากที่จะอาศัยอยู่อย่างถาวรในไทย ผมแนะนำว่า คุณก็กลับไปหาครอบครัวของคุณที่ประเทศของคุณก็ได้ ถ้าคิดถึงไทย หรืออยากมาพักผ่อน สนุกสนาน ในช่วงฤดูหนาว ก็กลับมาประเทศไทย 2-3 month คนไทยยินดีต้อนรับทุกคนเสมอ ขอบคุณความรัก ความชื่นชอบประเทศไทยของเรา Thank you so… so much Mr. Cal . I know you love Thailand.

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you for the kind words ❤️ And yes, I definitely love Thailand!

[@lavista4u]

If Thailand allows long term visas for farangs, 90% of west would gladly live in Thailand for ever, even with all laws against foreigners because west is simply unlivable. The cost of living is through the roof, super high taxes, unaffordable housing, crime, doctor appointment for over six months waiting period, illegal immigration. Perhaps, 10 years ago, it would have been valid Thailand vs West comparison , right now, there is absolutely no comparison between west and Thailand. Thailand has raced ahead and kept its cost low, while west is heading for hell. All these so called western right for an individual are good on paper and talk shows in reality, life is hard in the west. On ground Thailand has lot more freedom than western countries. Thailand raced way ahead of even Philippines which many foreigners often compare

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for the comment. I definitely love living in Thailand. I have found that some friends were happy after moving back to their country, and others not so much. I haven’t actually been back to Canada in about 4 years… so that was before Covid and the serious inflation. I’ll go back in a couple of months. Where are you from?

[@sundayevening161]

You should be careful that there is a political party that western countries like USA , UK , EU support to win election. This party they want to change Thailand to western society. Why USA , UK , EU want this party to win? Because they want Thailand for base operation to fight with China. Now the Philippines is a proxy war to fight with China.

[@izebangpa]

Did you see a Thailand Elite visa yet ?

[@snookchalida8279]

Im from Bangkok but living in London right now and I totally agree with the statement above. Living here is such a rat race.. planning to move back to Bkk at the end of this year. However, the 2 main things that I hate about Bangkok is the traffic and air pollution.

[@kennethboehnen271]

Thailand had longterm visas. I have a 10-year visa. I bought nice cheap condo on Samui. No issues.

[@martypoll]

All good reasons for people under 50 years who can only really stay here if they have a job and/or are married to a Thai. If you are over 50 and a retiree then Thailand can be a great final destination.

[@thebangkokguide]

I agree with that point. I definitely love living here, but over the years plenty of friends have decided to leave...usually it's for fairly similar reasons. For retirees it is a great option generally.

[@MyBelch]

Thailand is a terrible place to live if you have to work. It's not so bad if you're retired. If you have to make money, why do it in a place with such laughable salaries or hourly wages? Make hay while you're young, don't squander your productive years in a hopelessly dead-end employment environment like SEA.

[@martypoll]

@@MyBelch Well . . . there is still some nuance regarding the topic of working in Thailand. I know expat retirees that worked here for decades working for oil companies. I know American university professors that make Thai wages but they are university professor wages. Experienced teachers working at international schools can make a decent wage. I know a New Zealander with a lucrative seed exporting business. It’s cliche but I know several bar owners. There are expats satisfied with farming life in the countryside. No doubt though that there are many many young people, often without much work experience, that come here thinking they can just work any job and just get by. That has to wear people down especially when they eventually realize that there is no future financial security available for them and coupled with the visa insecurity for anyone under 50 years old. The difficulties of making it in their home countries is not insubstantial but they can stay as citizens and they are more comfortable in a familiar cultural environment.

[@MyBelch]

Yes, I agree with all of that. It's not impossible to work in Thailand, but for the same effort, you would make substantially more working in the West. And you would have the option of upward mobility that simply doesn't exist in Thailand.@@martypoll

[@_Alfa.Bravo_]

... agree, except the 3 monthes full of smoke, which I hate a lot

[@user-jb9ty5ds7r]

I am born raised in England, spent the last 41 years in US. very enjoyable experience. retired, moved to BKK and trust a Canadian to speak so elequently and without exageration about Thailand. Well done

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you for the kind words! Much appreciated. Welcome to Thailand!

[@Crazykidzz]

Basically Thailand is good for retirement but not making money as a expat and I see that as a good things for protecting their own people.

[@thebangkokguide]

This is true for some of the issues…although Thailand actually ranks as one of the most unequal countries in the world, with a very small minority controlling most of the wealth. This inequality isn’t a result of expats. On many issues, there is a lot of scapegoating in order to distract the populace from the real inequalities.

[@rafski-travels-1984]

I have lived abroad for 14 years and there came a time when I dropped worrying about whether I fit in or not, who cares ? As an expat choose a few close friends and enjoy the perks of being a foreigner and ignore the ethno-nationalism, it’s just the way it is .

[@thebangkokguide]

I think it’s the right approach. I’m similar on this. It doesn’t bother me and I actually enjoy the freedom that comes with being something of an outsider. Cheers

[@rafski-travels-1984]

@gkokguide Exactly that is one of the meanings of an expat, apart from being banished haha. Those who are serious of living abroad long-term need to overcome this sensitivity and see it as logically as they can, at the end of the day you are privileged to be able to travel and expand your horizons, many people around the world lead insular lives, it gives them pleasure to poke at you as a foreigner haha

[@thebangkokguide]

I agree fully with your view. It's important to recognize the privilege of being able to move around and live freely in most countries.

[@Ginnyyy16]

Great video 😊❤

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you!

[@franciscusjohannesburger3720]

Thanks for the info !

[@thebangkokguide]

Cheers!

[@danteinferno175]

Appreciate your genuine acceptance of Thailand as it is without screaming the "r" word. As you mention, most countries are ethnic-based and there's nothing wrong with that [modern Western countries where you're XYZ as long as you hold XYZ passport are an anomaly in world history whether for good or for bad]. Also, it's nice that housing is affordable in Thailand b/c they don't have insane levels of immigration driving up the cost of housing like in the US where nobody can afford to buy a home anymore. Thailand looks after Thais, yet at the same time is welcoming to farang who want to live there as long as they have money to take care of themselves and abide by the rules. That's how all countries should be run imho. Keep the informative videos coming!

[@thebangkokguide]

I fully agree with your perspective. I think sometimes westerners have a habit of thinking other countries need to adapt to western ideology, without realizing that the west is actually an aberration in human history in almost every respect. Thanks for the comment!

[@dqrossvideography5134]

Thanks for making this video. Still catching up with all your content and this is one of the best ones so far. There’s a plethora of videos about how wonderful Thailand is and it is indeed my one of my favourite countries in the world but it is so important to give a balanced view especially when providing info to people contemplating moving to another country. Having lived on 3 different continents I can safely say that no place is perfect. Some downsides can be anticipated but some things depend on one’s own temperament so it’s always a bit of an adventure anyway. I’ve forwarded this one to my husband as we are deciding whether to move to Thailand permanently or just spend as much time there as possible while keeping a home somewhere else. Thanks again for this video; our last move was to Australia from the uk 12 years ago. I wish I had been provided with a more balanced view at the time although they did warn us about spiders the size of my hand 😂

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you for the kind words. That was exactly my intention in making this video…just to give some balance for people considering relocating as it’s a big decision that has plenty of pros and cons. I love living in Thailand, but it’s important to be aware of some of the challenges as well…and consider one’s own personality and whether it will match. I’d recommend trying out living here first…which is quite easy with tourist visas. If it feels right, make the full move! Cheers

[@dqrossvideography5134]

@@thebangkokguide thank you. Yes, spending as much time here as possible is the key. I’m trying all kinds of areas and I recommend Duke language school for anyone who’d like to learn Thai. I figure it’s going to take me a while to get fluent so I’ve been learning both back “home” and now here in Thailand. Your input is really valuable to people like us. Thanks again and keep going!! 😊

[@littletravelmonkey6727]

Mexico real estate has gone through the roof due to lack of land ownership restrictions.

[@thebangkokguide]

That’s true. I actually agree with the laws around foreign ownership restrictions. Relaxing those would be too damaging to affordability for local people. This has been a trend all over the world.

[@PhanOT11]

As an Asian American living in the USA for nearly 40 years. I can relate to your story. I feel the same (like a foreigner) when I take my family going places in America, especially going to the remote places, or across the mostly white states.

[@thebangkokguide]

I totally understand that. As I was making the video, I was thinking that this is probably how many visible minorities feel in western countries! Cheers!

[@davidkemp5798]

It's not the same, you have the sane rights in western countries regardless of where you come from.

[@EB-jf5oi]

​@@davidkemp5798In Western countries non-Whites are very coddled as are women in general. You are totally correct. It's not comparable.

[@user-gs3tq6bx2u]

@@davidkemp5798 "you have the sane rights in western countries regardless of where you come from." and you don't have to suffer the insult of being charged a higher rate as there isn't a two tiered pricing system in the US like there is for farang in Thailand.....but you do have to suffer, at times, the indignancy of racial ignorance or outright racism.

[@henrmiller5345]

How can you be so blind? You can't compare Thailand and the USA/West at all. USA/West=privileged. Thailand=mostly poor. go to Thailand and tell me how safe you feel and whether you are afraid of a hate crime. and then you cry because some (only in tourist places) add 50 cents to the price. and now I want to know if there are places in the "West" with different price scales. and on the subject of everyone having the same rights: once again thinking too briefly. Firstly, there is structural racism and that makes it more difficult to get justice and secondly, someone with money can buy better legal advice. This ignorance of "Westerners" (especially those who have lived in "poorer" foreign countries) is outrageous, apparently coddled by their own culture, they believe that they are the masters of the world.

[@philliproberts7294]

Lots eventually leave because of the constant heat and humidity nice at first if you're from a cold country but sweaty all day every day It just gets too much

[@thebangkokguide]

To be honest, I don't mind the heat. I don't complain because my country is too cold!

[@paulevans6403]

Your video was good but your responses to the comments are even better and adds completeness.

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for the kind words. Cheers!

[@sebastianhamilton5892]

That's for sure. Viewer comments and replies go a long way in promoting a channel.

[@teagreentree]

I recently moved from the "One 9 Five" condo (near Jodd Fair) to a much less touristy area in Bangkok. After all, being near the Phra Ram 9 station was draining.

[@thebangkokguide]

It is definitely way too buys, especially with Jodd Fair expansion!

[@teagreentree]

By the way, we always enjoy the content of your videos and the easy going nature about yourself. (We're from the Pacific Northwest as well) @@thebangkokguide

[@michaeldileo8815]

Another insightful video! One thing I will say about the Thais always perceiving Farang as tourists is learning the language helps out a lot! I'm not fluent, but I have a firm grasp of the language and Thais routinely think I live there when I come to visit (only been there twice). I decided to learn because I will eventually move within the next few years.

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for the kind words. I definitely agree with that. I can speak some Thai, although I need to learn more as well. I think it also differs alot based on the areas. Haha I made this video after a day out in some of the more touristy areas in the city. Probably not a coincidence there.

[@HectorGarcia-nb2ld]

The Thai language sucks like the Spanish language .

[@consulthai]

I think you made very good points and reasons ,particularly for families . For retirees it's a different proposition. Whether you're a pensioner or self funded the difference of cost of living when you're no longer in the work force is substantial. There are two long term visas available now depending on your circumstances . If you're a long term resident here the double pricing can be overcome ; you can apply for a yellow book and a Pink ID card and identify yourself as a resident and not a tourist, you won't be charged extra and I can vouch for it . The decision on whether to stay or repatriate is very much dependent on individual circumstances . But you made a good report about the issues . How about the home is where the heart is?😉 Does that apply to you?

[@davidb2206]

I was fluent after the third year, usually walking with my wife, and it made little difference. Especially in government offices and Immigration. I heard some god-awful stuff when they didn't know I was fluent.

[@brendonoehme8707]

Gee what a great video. Ive been thinking of moving there from Australia but with our 7 yo son, I might wait. The education issue has worried me and this video was meant to be. Thanks heaps. Ive just subscribed. Cheers Brendon

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for the kind words. Having young kids is definitely challenging for staying in Thailand…Australia is quite close so it might make sense to travel back and forth! Cheers

[@DeanBKK]

​@iclaudius9954 The free public education in western countries is higher quality than the expensive international schools here.

[@DeanBKK]

@iclaudius9954 it's not an assumption. It's a fact. Hence why more expats would rather educate their kids in the west even though they can afford international school fees in Thailand 🤷‍♂️

[@DeanBKK]

@iclaudius9954 it's not an assumption. It's a fact. Hence why so many expats decide to have their kids educated in their home country, even though they can afford international school fees. 🤷‍♂️

[@dr.winstonsmith]

International schools are much higher quality than Western public schools in every area, but especially in values. Your kids in Aussie public schools will be eating fairy bread and told to lwear rainbow colored clothes as indoctrination into the new dominant ideology. This is fact, not exaggeration. Good luck with that.

[@NichBro]

Good video. An honest perspective and true I think. I am a US citizen with a lot of time in Thailand over the last 25 years and married to a Thai.

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you for the kind words! I'm getting there haha... a third of the way! Cheers

[@tony-ce7qp]

great video and well wishes to you!

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you! Best wishes to you as well!

[@johnschneidhorst3406]

The best assessment I've seen so far.

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for the kind words! Cheers

[@ontariobeaver9376]

1. Canadian pension is substantially less than 2000 baks per person. 2. Even with 2,000 CAD, you will be living in poverty. 3. Canada would never give you 2000 baks if you live outside the country; at best, you will receive 30% of it. 4. The environment, healthcare system, and food quality are incompatible with Canadian realities.

[@thebangkokguide]

Pension and old age security adds up to about $2000 currently...but yes, if you need to pay rent then it is definitely poverty.

[@vaska1999]

​@@thebangkokguide That's the maximum possible amount; most people don't receive anything close to $2,000 a month, while our cost of living has gone through the roof. A lot of working age Canadians are struggling as never before and homelessness has spread to mid-sized cities, too.

[@LUCKHEF]

Good content 🙏🏽

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you!

[@markadler8968]

In almost every single video I see about Thailand that is filmed outside I can hear one of those birds in the background.

[@thebangkokguide]

Hahah this is very accurate. They spot a KZbinr and they come and join the party!

[@sebastianhamilton5892]

Yes, it's from the "Authentic Bird Sounds from Thailand" record. Very popular with KZbinrs and very convincing!

[@SearchingforSage]

Really mature and helpful information. Thanks for sharing!

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you for the kind words!

[@ErikBlair]

Yes, these reasons are valid for most westerners, accept those from the United States. Because in the US, they don't have quality healthcare, and the healthcare is very expensive. The cost of living in the US is enormous, and a person living on social security is forced to live in extreme poverty. Housing in the US is ridiculously expensive, and despite being a US citizen, people are forced to work themselves to death forever, just to make ends meet. They live in an ever-declining state of depression and an undignified dystopian society where the level of stress from uncertainty and diminishing returns rivals what it must be like living in a third-world country under a monstrous dictatorship. Therefore, if a US citizen were to somehow escape the US to live in Thailand, their lives are immediately enriched and their chances for happiness are at least double that of the US for a cost of living that's less than half as much as the US.

[@fjackson4382]

Agreed. I'd say the health care in the US is good quality if you can afford it. But everything else is for sure accurate.

[@JohnRamz-ww4sd]

The US probably has the best health care on earth. However, the out of pocket costs for medical insurance is $$$$$$

[@ErikBlair]

@@JohnRamz-ww4sdI disagree. Many countries have better quality healthcare

[@thebangkokguide]

The lack of universal healthcare in the US definitely changes the equation. That being said, wait-times in Canada can render it somewhat useless as well...

[@ErikBlair]

@@thebangkokguide​​⁠the US has the same long wait times, and they often get cancelled and we have to start over. Insurance often refuses to cover what they’re supposed to cover, stalling, until the person dies. The US is one of the worst countries in the world to have an illness.

[@harleydavis3814]

Well articulated video with some good supporting visual data

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you for the kind words!

[@Skwarek-wp8dc]

Universal health care in Canada 😂 ... just do not get sick and you will be fine. + Canada has free MAID system, meaning they medically' kill you ... for free

[@sebastianhamilton5892]

Yes, great visual aids. I personally would, however, leave each one on the screen for a few seconds longer. I use 8 seconds.

[@michaelphillips4452]

Enjoy your Canadian winter,...

[@thebangkokguide]

a balmy -40 day over there right now haha

[@SjaakSchulteis]

My wife is Thai and we live south of Hua Hin. But even my wife has to explain sometimes that she is Thai. Otherwise we live a happy life here and so far the changes didn't have much impact on my way of living.

[@thebangkokguide]

Sounds great! Im still living here in Bangkok as well. Been trying to figure out some workarounds 😅

[@teeranit]

I grew up in Europe but was born in Thailand. Since i m relocated here 6y ago I still wonder what would be the best option when it come to build a family considering the healthcare and education cost... I start to think now it might be better for children to grow up in a more advanced society with less inequality and also more educated people (no offend to thais).

[@thebangkokguide]

I think about the same question. It’s a difficult decision as each society has its pros and cons. Thanks for the input!

[@kevinj5989]

Cal, you're way off on the $2K/month for pensions in Canada. It's more like $866 basic and $400 Old Age Supplement (if you qualify for it).

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for the input. I think maybe the number I was told is on the upper end of CPP with OAS. But I see that the average is lower. Tough to survive on that!

[@magicfire1]

I love life in Asia. 95% of the people are respectful. Only thing that can convince to leave is the pollution / Traffic. Hope pollution issues gonna be tackle in the next few years. Otherwise, life is too convenient. Hell no coming back in western Europe.

[@thebangkokguide]

I agree. I like the respectful culture. It makes for a very family friendly overall environment as well. Tackling the pollution would be a huge improvement.

[@magicfire1]

@@thebangkokguide it's also very safe, perfect environment for kids.

[@topcat9350]

Well presented totally correct interesting 👍

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you for the kind words!

[@milovee1238]

It's not just Thailand or foreign countries. Years ago I bought property in Vermont and got to know some of the old timers there and I remember one old guy saying “yep, been here 30 years and I'll die a stranger.”

[@thebangkokguide]

That’s a good point! I also think that friends who have left and returned home probably have a lot of complaints after they arrived back in their home countries. I think I will try to contact some and ask them.. I know that I did when I returned home for a year after 3 years here. Thanks for the input!

[@SteveWalterstheMoneyInfant]

Yep, education was our reason for leaving Thailand. 2 kids would have meant ~48k USD/year just for schooling. That more than outweighs the otherwise 'cheap' living in Thailand. Once the kids are off to college we'll be back :)

[@thebangkokguide]

Education is the big one. It's definitely been the number one reason that I've seen people leave. Cheers

[@scott80ca]

Totally agree. Im in the Philippines part time but its quite similar, and i see similar problems that some expats have.

[@thebangkokguide]

I imagine that it’s similar for any non-immigration based society. Cheers

[@nickeyfynn3270]

If you plan to love in thailand for ak extended period of time, learning to PROPERLY speak read and write thai will change your experience for the better.

[@thebangkokguide]

I agree. I can speak some Thai but should spend more time studying.

[@MsNoi2010]

My partner 's live here for 12 years and today he just got long term resident visa🎉

[@thebangkokguide]

I have some friends that have applied for citizenship as well! Happy for him!

[@yadavhistorykshatriyas]

Really liked the video...!! i request you to Make a new video on the new tax rules

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks! I made one about it before. I haven't seen any updates but I will take a look. Cheers

[@ront3136]

I'd say you nailed it with the description of Thailand as an ethnocentric society. Indeed it is. I lived there for six years and yes, I was ALWAYS treated differently as a farang. But it never felt like it was coming from a place of nefarious intent. I did make the effort to speak Thai, and it made a huge difference in the interactions I had with people from vendors in the market adding extra portions to my purchase to taxi drivers waiting in their car after I got out to make sure they'd dropped me off at the right place to girls constantly flirting with me. It was cute and endearing :)

[@thebangkokguide]

I agree. I don't feel that it's nefarious either. I think that it's best to embrace the farang identity, and then its quite enjoyable! Cheers!

[@patriciatusay1768]

I can understand what you are saying for the younger people who move to Thailand and work for the low wages etc. It makes sense. At some point - they will need a pension or if American -Social Security. What about retirement? What about people who are done with working in the US or wherever they are from and move there for an example. At 70, I will receive a good pension that I can get here and social security that I can get here as well. I do not have to work and prefer a condo. I have no desire to own anything in Thailand. I will try to learn the language and assimilate as much as I can. As a former ESL Professor at a University and k -12 teacher -I may try to work to teach or tutor to keep busy while traveling in and the around this part of the world. Health Insurance is very low in Thailand - even though I still need to keep my Health insurance in the US incase. I will need both. I have no children so I do not have to worry about educating them. Money will not be a problem nor access to it. In fact, I get to save much more in Thailand for large trips or whatever I want. In the US, I will become house poor and have to watch every penny as they say. Is there a similar comparison with senior returning home as well ? I prefer Bangkok and Chiang Mai as I am a city girl from NY. The senior ex pat community seem to have different end goals at this point in their lives. Do you have any insights regarding the seniors who move, stay or move back home? Thanks!

[@thebangkokguide]

I think that it is ideal for retirement. I haven't heard many stories about seniors returning home, as the cost of living and quality of life on a fixed income is much better in Thailand. Your plan sounds very good. Actually with the digital economy, even young people can do very well here. I think the primary difficult is for people with young children, and this is by far the most common reason that many of my friends have decided to leave over time. Cheers!

[@vaska1999]

I'm a retired college professor (English) here in Canada and can't stand the climate and our excessively strained health care system any longer. I'll be moving to a lower-cost-of-living part of Europe this year and am learning as much as I can about Thailand as I may want to spend 3-4 months a year there on a regular basis.

[@thebangkokguide]

@@vaska1999 I’ve heard the healthcare system is having challenges. Your plan sounds good. Thailand is perfect for a few months of the year. Just make sure to get good health insurance as well! Cheers

[@vaska1999]

@@thebangkokguide Yes, sadly, our health care system is seriously below par. It's another reason I'm leaving.

[@housie8785]

Which part Thailand best to go. I like stay near by the beach. Planning to come this June

[@thebangkokguide]

Lots of options. Islands are great for the beach. You might want to go to Krabi or Phuket and the southern islands. Definitely fit that itinerary!

[@birdyflying4240]

Try Brazil! Friendly people, good food, good climate and you won't feel a stranger in Brazil. Cost of living: with 1K dollar a month you can live well, depending region and city. You can buy property in smaller places near the beach with good climate. Highest cost is private healtcare but it is very good and fast.

[@thebangkokguide]

Would love to check it out! I have friends who stay in Colombia as well.

[@sunrise-yq3dy]

Good, Brazil welcome Westerners. You are equal, 100 % ownership, villa, land and business. Thailand has nothing of that. Brazil is positively multi-cultural

[@birdyflying4240]

@@sunrise-yq3dy i agree, i live 19+ years in Brazil and you will not feel like a stranger at all. The only difficulty is to get a permanent visa but even without that you can buy and own land or a house. Other huge benefit is that it has a western like culture and easy o connect. If you are Asian, African or European, you won't feel a foreigner.

[@EB-jf5oi]

South America is dangerous. For people settled there it's ok as you can clique up and defend yourself better. For Johnny foreigner that time has passed.

[@birdyflying4240]

@oi This is like saying "Europa" or "US" is dangerous because there are shootings every week. South America is diverse and has many realities and some places better to avoid. But reality is that if you use common sense, which you need to use everywhere, you avoid much of potential poblems. I feel as safe in Brazil (19+ years) as in Holland.

[@ReallyStrongGuy]

Smart video content❤

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@ReallyStrongGuy]

@@thebangkokguide My pleasure. Intelligence is rare. Those who have it will seek it. We are happy to celebrate it and remind each other we exist.

[@thebangkokguide]

Cheers 🙏😊

[@user-ug8fg6yp6d]

New subscriber from Thailand

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for subscribing! Cheers

[@Uk_bigboss11]

My advice is if your under 50 just do short trips 3 months max then go home or to a first world country to work and then when your fifty you can retire in thailand rich and stable

[@thebangkokguide]

This is a good plan. Although online work opportunities have increased the possibility of living abroad while investing well! Thanks for the input!

[@ErikOdinsvej]

Thank you for your video, (I am from Denmark) I have visit Thailand 30 times now, normally 6 week each time but after I get retired I stay 6 month now, I also love thailand and the people, have an gf now for 10 years and enjoy thailand every time, but I also have some point that is not so nice : smoke from farmers (Chiang Mai) and Thai gonverment new rules and visa work every time I come, I think that if I didn't have a gf, then I will try some other country in Asia. again Thanks for your video, very informativ.

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for your input! I definitely agree with the pollution as well. I would add this to the list in the video. Cheers!

[@Sdevil00]

เป็นเรื่องปกติค่ะคุณ Cal , สิ่งเหล่านี้เกิดขึ้นทุกที่บนโลกใบนี้เมื่อเราอาศัยอยู่ประเทศอื่น ดิฉันเองก็อาศัยอยู่ที่อินเดียมา 20 กว่าปี กฎหมายที่อินเดียก็ไม่ได้ friendly กับชาวต่างชาติเลยค่ะ หนักกว่าที่ไทยเยอะ นี้ขนาดดิฉันกลมกลืนกับคนท้องถิ่นที่นี้ วัฒนธรรมไทยอินเดียก็ไม่แตกต่างกันมาก แต่มันยังไม่ง่ายเลยค่ะ ดิฉันหลังเกษียณก็จะกลับมาอยู่ไทยค่ะ home sweet home 😊

[@thebangkokguide]

ขอบคุณสำหรับข้อมูล เห็นด้วยกับคุณ. การอาศัยอยู่ในต่างประเทศมักจะต้องผสมผสานเข้ากับวัฒนธรรมท้องถิ่นอยู่เสมอ หวังว่าชีวิตในอินเดียจะดีสำหรับคุณ! 🙏

[@Sdevil00]

​@@thebangkokguide บางครั้งก็อดจะน้อยใจไม่ได้เช่นกันค่ะ ต่อวีซ่าและ work permit ทุกปียุ่งยากสุดๆ ต่อให้เราทำตัวผสมผสานและกลมกลืนแค่ไหนมันก็ยังมีเส้นแบ่งเราอยู่ดี ดิฉันได้แต่ทำใจต้องยอมรับ ปรับตัว และมองหาจุดดีๆของที่นี้ เพื่อที่จะอยู่ได้อย่างมีความสุข ดิฉันหวังเป็นอย่างยิ่งว่าคุณ Cal จะอาศัยอยู่ที่เมืองไทยได้อย่างมีความสุขและมีเพื่อนคนไทยที่ดี หวังเป็นอย่างยิ่งว่าคุณ Cal จะได้รับการต้อนรับที่อบอุ่นทุกที่ๆคุณไป

[@indeedideat1114]

คุณcalต้องลองไปอยู่พะงัน ผมไปที่นั่น ผมรู้สึกเหมือนไม่ใช่ประเทศไทยแล้ว555 คนไทยดูเป็นคนต่างชาติมากเลย

[@thebangkokguide]

Haha this is true. I went before… too many westerners 😂

[@svenw.6918]

​@@thebangkokguidei've had the same feeling in Chiang Mai. Feels like walking around in an east European Holiday Destination 😅

[@jefftanasse6958]

Seen one big temple ..seen them all... just dont go to tourist attractions that charge a fee. Groceries ..gas..clothes..same for all. Get your Thai gf or friend to buy negotiable stuff while you wait around the corner..

[@thebangkokguide]

Good tips! Thanks for the input!

[@molonlabe9602]

I don't need my Thai wife to do my bidding. If I can't get the price that I want to pay, I politely walk away and wait for the next opportunity to buy what I'm interested in. Important expensive things (such as appliances or new vehicles) are usually purchased through national chain stores where there is no haggling. All the other stuff is "walk-away-able".

[@chrisjuricichxl5]

ok, makes sense. my wife and I retired to the Philippines which in many ways is similarly situated on the economic spectrum; lots of corruption, lots of poverty, poor education system, inadequate health care, etc. BUT...we have a better life here than in the States with our income currently. It allows us to travel a bit; we built our retirement home so no mortgage, just our credit card bills which we usually pay off significantly each month. We just got back from Thailand; three weeks in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai--next week I'm off to the north of Luzon here with friends. It's great.

[@thebangkokguide]

I agree with your perspective. I choose to stay here as well. I’ll have to visit the Philippines sometime soon! Cheers

[@chrisjuricichxl5]

@@thebangkokguide the joke between me and my British pal who also has retired here is that while yes...foreign countries DO have practices that seem crazy or 'unwestern' or protective etc that can be vexing, we both say about the Philippines 'It's a shithole, but it's OUR shithole.' All things being equal, I endure the negatives with good humor but I think on balance I'd prefer to live in Thailand. Wife also likes it...but not as much as I do.

[@johnsmith-gs4qf]

All very good points. I love Thailand as a tourist, but I would never live their permanently unless I had at a minimum a good pension, Social Security, good savings, etc.

[@thebangkokguide]

I think it's more built for tourism, which is quite understandable.

[@williambamford593]

You lose SS after 6 months out of country

[@DeanBKK]

​@@williambamford593 No. You don't. Please read on the SS website.

[@bartimay8543]

I am Polish living in the UK for the last 18 years... and I always will be treated as Polish living in the UK so I do not see a huge the difference. However, yes re own the property etc you have a point.

[@thebangkokguide]

I totally understand that. I think the cultural disconnect applies everywhere!

[@johnderfler5183]

I live in Las Vegas Nevada, I can live a month in thailand on my social security, l can rent an apartment in Vegas for the same amount. 1 month in Thailand 900 dollars for everything,rent food etc. 1 bedroom apartment in Vegas 900 dollars. Truth is I can't afford to live in the USA anymore. So i.will find a place where I can.

[@thebangkokguide]

I would take the social security and move abroad as well... add an online gig and you can live very well!

[@jdshemp]

@johnderfler5183 I lived in Vegas on Sandhill road, one bedroom apartment was $1300 a month, my car insurance was $400 a month, I live in Thailand on less than that.....

[@TalkZik]

I agree with the cost of visiting the place. The government should give special rights to long-term residents.

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you for the input 😊🙏

[@svenw.6918]

Doesn't matter if you live here 1 year or 20 years or are even born here as a farang. You will always be the farang/Tourist. Some can not handle that after paying taxes in Thailand whole their life 🙃 Laws are changing all the time. I learned to go with the flow and just accept certain things here in Thailand but that doesn't mean i need to fully embrace it and join the stupidity that comes along with it. I love it here and the things i dont love here i will find myself solution for. Everybody happy 🙏

[@thebangkokguide]

Correct. A lot of it is just the sheer number of tourists. This is a tourism economy, so it's understandable that people will normally think you are tourist if you're from a western country. Personally it doesn't bother me either. There is also a benefit of existing in your own world outside of societal norms and expectations! Cheers!

[@littletravelmonkey6727]

A Canadian with chinese ethnicity born and raised in Canada still be considered as "farang" in white Canadians view, often being asked "Where are you REALLY from".

[@thebangkokguide]

Yeah I thought about this while making the video. I understand the frustration that must be felt!

[@littletravelmonkey6727]

@thebangkokguide It's not just in Canada, it happens ALL THE TIME in the US, Australia, etc. We the non white citizens in those countries in a way are not real citizens of the country in some people's mind. A Chinese American or Chinese Australian isn't really a true American or Australian, even both claim as melting pot.

[@thebangkokguide]

Yeah I get where you are coming from. I think people maintain somewhat tribal outlooks generally based on ethnicity. I think the only difference in the discussion of western countries in relation to this video is that legally Canadian and other western government apply equal status and rights regardless of ethnicity etc. Any form of official discrimination is taken extremely seriously. In Canada we also have pretty extensive affirmative action and DEI programs that directly favor admissions and hiring for most jobs. It's impossible to eliminate all individual prejudice, as people are invariably flawed and there are plenty of pricks in the world... but on a policy level, the western countries are extremely equality oriented.

[@littletravelmonkey6727]

@@thebangkokguide I agree 👍. Thank you for your input

[@thebangkokguide]

Cheers. Thanks for the input as well!

[@maniastrat]

It is true what you said & why even we did eventually move back...but we still have our home in Thailand & visit 3 months most years. The biggest drawback is once you reach 65 Health insurance is not only expensive but sketchy on not covering this or that. Also at some point many expats realize this is not where they want it to end so thinking about the homeland you realize your also maybe wasting years that you could use to earn now & won't be able to later. But yes we like you also love Thailand & our years there. We may even return permanently one day but to be honest the benefits of the home country is hard to beat & was really obvious in the C-19 years too

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for the input. I agree with the health insurance point. It is a tricky industry. Overall, I noticed a considerable trend of KZbinrs making videos telling people to quit their job and move to Thailand, so I thought it's important to make a counter video to give a little bit of balance. Cheers!

[@jollykate8562]

In my opinion, Thailand is a place where people come to relax and enjoy life mostly. If you come here without your income from where you come from so I don’t think it’s a good idea unless you have anywhere remote job. I think you made the right decision to go back and find a real job to do for yourself instead of doing nothing in Thailand. I believe you will come back whenever you’re ready. ❤😊

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you for the kind words. Actually I'm on a western salary here and do remote work... for me, it mostly comes down to the education system. This is also why many friend have chosen to leave. Cheers!

[@trianglehat6994]

Same in Vietnam. 17 years on, married here. Still a tourist.

[@thebangkokguide]

I was in Vietnam recently. Beautiful country, but I definitely shared that impression! Thanks for the input.

[@trianglehat6994]

@@thebangkokguide the government processes are getting worse each year. They are considering forcing expats into buying apartments to stay here for longer than 6 months. Things are getting weird.

[@thebangkokguide]

Yeah my friend was in Hanoi during the pandemic working in management for a large hotel brand. His condo evicted him for being foreign without notice, and foreigners were barred from entering most places. I think the experience there might be somewhat representative of general attitudes. That being said, I always noticed a large difference between the north and south.

[@vaska1999]

​@@thebangkokguide😮

[@sallylee6934]

You can own a condo and you can buy a house or villa with a 30 year lease on the property which can be extended 2 times plus you can leave it for your children.

[@Simplengpinaymorena]

Come in the Philippines try to visit your all welcome there😘😘😘😘

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you! I will!

[@Paul_R1206]

My situation is different. My child is grown and I have 2 grandkids. Once my house sells I’ll have that money plus my Social Security and pension. I don’t plan on buying a house. And with all of the condos you say they have to rent, if a foreigner knew how to really do it right, he could negotiate his own price for a year. As long as you pay that year in advance.

[@thebangkokguide]

Yeah I think you have a good plan overall. Don’t get me wrong. I love Thailand. Just want to provide a bit of balance in perspective for everyone 😊

[@markadler8968]

You will be doing far better than the majority of people who think they can make it in that country as you will a large sum of money plus a pension. Being that that financial situation will give you the flexibility to change locations/countries on a whim and to travel. I have the same plan as you but I am just a 7-8 years away from collecting a pension. Be careful about paying a year in advance, there are are stories about people getting scammed in that country paying in advance for a condo.

[@thebangkokguide]

I agree with the point about not paying a year in advance. There normally aren't many advantages, but there is a lot of added risk.

[@Paul_R1206]

@@thebangkokguide The advantage would be if you found a place you wanted, and they wanted $600 US per month. But yet you don’t feel like it’s worth $600 but more like $450 or $500. Most foreigners go there and ask if they paid for a year, how much would they take off. Then they tell them $25. So if/when I do it, if the place is worth $450 to me I’ll offer $5,400 for the entire year. Like you said Cal, they’ve built so many that they can’t rent out. I’ll be in Pattaya once I get there. Yes and I do understand what the two of you are speaking of, but you have to be at a nice credible spot. You’ll be able to tell if it’s shady once you get there. You’re in the position to dictate your rent instead of letting them dictate it for you. That’s all I’m saying. Never give them responsibility on how much you should pay if you want a deal. You do that on your own.

[@regnorse]

it wont work that way, someone other than the person you negotiated with can move the goal posts a few months later. good luck@@Paul_R1206

[@anna_m59]

I spend 3 months in Thailand just currently.. I would agree with every aspect that mention..local welcome you as a tourist for the $$$& that’s pretty much.. the disrespecting the street / traffic is very sad and unsafe.. I will return as tourist maybe but nothing more!

[@thebangkokguide]

Traffic and walking can definitely be a challenge! Cheers

[@siriphansriphan9450]

เห็นด้วยคะ กลับไปทำมาหากินที่บ้านดีกว่าเพราะว่าคุณอายุยังน้อย มาเที่ยวเมืองไทยบ้าง. เมื่อคุณอายุมากเเละเกษีรณเเล้ว ค่อยมาอยู่เมืองไทยนานๆนะคะ คนไทยยินดีต้อนรับคุณเสมอคะ

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you for the kind words!

[@themorningflightinindonesi3558]

How did you manage a Thai visa for that long time? I am curious.

[@thebangkokguide]

I work legally in Thailand! It would be difficult otherwise.

[@darwinstubbie860]

If you think you are better off in Canada then you do not know what is going on.

[@thebangkokguide]

This may be true. I haven't spent much time there in the past decade.

[@larryellington3543]

This summer I will be eligible for a $2,000 per month Social security pension. I also have about $400k in savings. I'm single. I'm thinking for that kind of money I could have a very comfortable lifestyle there as a retiree? (I have been to Thailand twice, last time in 2017 for a few weeks, traveled all over).

[@amandaroberts5111]

Me love youl ong time lol

[@larryellington3543]

😂

[@thebangkokguide]

You can definitely live quite well with that. I think ideal for your situation.

[@duenodeactivisionblizzard5478]

With that money you can live like a king in thailand. I envy you!

[@coedshowers]

my filipino wife got talked to in thai everywhere we went. They told her "dont talk just say how many tickets so you dont get tourist charged"

[@thebangkokguide]

Yeah that can be especially tough for westerners that live here and pay taxes…random Asian tourist walks up and gets Thai price immediately 😂

[@Hammocktraveller]

Hi. Your points make sense about Thailand and the general feeling is that they don't want expats, just short term Chinese and Indians. But when you compare to Canada I don't follow you. Guaranteed 2k$ pension? Not sure and if get that you can hardly live. The average cost for a 1 bedroom apartment in Montreal is now over 1,400$. Plus the minimum 100$ per week for grocery that doesn't leave much for medication and extras. Of course no car. healthcare is " free" but I am still waiting for a surgery needed 3 years ago. So for me, with a 2,000$ pension ( and that is if I stay 6 months in Canada) my home country is not affordable for me and milion of people anymore. I love Thailand but it is also getting more expensive every year, but still possible to live well. There are also Vietnam and the Philippines.... 7:45

[@thebangkokguide]

Thanks for the comment. I think it’s generally getting tougher. I only mentioned the pension as it would ultimately be zero over here, and I’ve met older folks that are definitely in a difficult financial situation. But I agree that costs have risen while services have declined.

[@palirvin1871]

I am soon to retire in Thailand, thanks for the video, I already have lived some of Asia and travelled some in Thailand. Your video is very valuable for someone of your age. It all makes some sense. I on the other hand have to accept that I want to live in their country and weigh the benefits as a retiree while understanding that I will be bent over on a regular basis, foreigner tax, tourist tax, outright scams, bigotry. Asia countries seem to be similar in these concepts and attitudes and it's the cost of wanting to share their country with your life, they are not interested to actually share anything, they just tolerate you or NOT in some cases. I have to program and remind myself that I need to accept these infringements of my opinion because I simply do not want to live in my home country in my retirement for a variety of reasons and I admit, cost of living is one but not the only reason. Quality and integrity of food stuffs at fair prices, variety of fruits and veggies, the openness of a society for walking and getting exercise outdoors, reduced stress levels by not having to be part of a daily commute with a-holes in traffic .. the list is significant. To get that I have to learn to accept being treated like a second class citizen who lives in a nicer condo that a lot of the locals.. .Eh! Yes, because I am not a citizen. The real game is to get what I want while not preventing them from getting what they want from me. I can't be stupid and I also need to accept that they may change their minds and I may have to pack and leave.

[@thebangkokguide]

I agree with your attitude. What I always remember is that I’m actually very lucky to choose wherever I want to live, earn a good income and enjoy a nice life. Most people in the world are not so fortunate… It’s better to consider all the positives, rather than focus on negatives… for me it’s all a matter of maintaining a positive perspective and that applies wherever I might live! Cheers and safe travels!

[@magicfire1]

Canada housing / cost of living is crazy. Wish in 7 years, it would be less worse than today.

[@thebangkokguide]

Yeah I was looking at prices recently. It’s crazy how much prices went up.

[@markadler8968]

It will be double. It is impossible to build enough housing in Canada to keep up with population growth due to several factors.

[@regnorse]

so why dont those paid to run the place slow down the population/immigration growth?@@markadler8968

[@guymandudely324]

After 14 years of working and living in Bangkok, the Byzantine visa regs forced me to move back to the US. However, during my years in Thailand, I played the US stock market and eventually diverted my winnings into buying rental properties in the US. When I was forced to leave LOS, I had/have a rental income for my support and retirement 'career.' ESL/EFL teachers who have no savings and live and drink their income are a sorry lot - and then the retirement age in LOS for teachers is 60. Where does that leave older teachers who haven't prepared financially? As a young man from Canada, you are best to return to your home country to continue or build a career. Thailand is a death-trap for 20 and 30 year-old Westerners trying to build a career, but Thailand is a fun holiday destination despite the very long flight.

[@thebangkokguide]

The visa stuff gets very annoying over time. Actually I have followed a fairly similar path as you, and I’m considering doing the same in Canada. There is a rather large gap between people who focus on investing and productivity and the ESL and weekly binge drinking crowd and I totally agree with your assessment. Cheers!

[@guymandudely324]

@@thebangkokguide I am cheering you on as you return to forge a career in Canada. As you established yourself in whatever field you choose, you will find that you become a more attractive prospect to a Thai girl/partner/wife who understands that the ESL crowd is relatively low status. Thai women seek higher status in their relationship with farang, and by building a career in Canada, you will have a better future in your career and your love life in Thailand if that is your interest. Safe journey!

[@julia.rechenberg]

thank you for all the arguments for leaving, especially the topic that it’s not easy to own something there. We learned that from one of out airbnb hosts on Koh Yao Noi. He was also from Canada or the US, and he made some tricks with a local person to be able to buy a house and rent is with airbnb XD The problem especially in germany is that we expect all of these insurance and ,pension‘ systems to colapse mostly because of aaaaall the immigrants we are having!! (from ukraine, Iran, Irak, africa and so on; it‘s completely absurd what our government is doing! 😢). a lot of germans have already left the country and a lot will do in the future…. completely crazy times here 😅 it’s especially not that safe here anylonger…. I wish you all the best during your time in warm thailand, enjoy every moment 😊 ☀️

[@thebangkokguide]

Thank you for the kind words. I suspect your host used a Thai registered company... there are a few methods to acquire property, but it relies on these tricks, which isn't ideal. I have many friends from Germany here, and they mostly say the same thing. Cheers