The Realities of Living in Thailand as a Foreigner
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- Опубликовано: 25 авг 2024
- 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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I have lived in Thailand for six years. When I go visit relatives in California I can't wait to get to Thailand.
tell us more!
Please tell me more
I live in nyc and have a gf in Thailand
I visit her once a year for 3 weeks
And don't get me wrong, I love my family, I have a great job where I make 115k a year
But being completely honest
The more time I spend here, the more I begin to hate the U.S.A and American culture
I don't know if it's just vacation euphoria or just that I'm lost in my love for my girlfriend or whatever
But I'm almost convinced I wanna move here
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.
😂😂😂
Hihihihi
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
🤣 you are well prepared!
That’s exactly what I was thinking.
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.
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.
I wish I could do the same. How much money do you need to live comfortably?
@@dimitar297 damn, you did not discover this before marriage?
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
@@dimitar297wtf 😳
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.
Loved this. Well said.
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
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!!
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.
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
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.
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
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...
I lived in Thailand for 32 years. I read, write, and speak good Thai. I have lived in Indonesia since 2014. I prefer Indonesia.
May I ask where in Indonesia you live?
I live in place that is not well known. Balikpapan.@@lynnbrooks2430
@@lynnbrooks2430
Wow! I'd love to know why you prefer Indo. Because I think Indo is a nice place too
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!
Wow 😯
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
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?
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!
Wow you’re really courageous and I command you for telling it like it is!! Bravo 👏👏👏Nearly no one on RUclips 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.
Thank you very much for the kind words!
I lived and worked in Thailand for five years...First of all, you've hit on so many accurate and valid points! I considered staying in Thailand after retirement and wonderful Thai friends told me that they considered me part of their family and promised me they would take care of me until the day I left the planet, and I believe they would have...I ended up coming back to the States because I wanted my grandchildren to know me...I've regretted that move to this day...I really don't see my grandchildren that often either...I was out of the country for 20 years teaching in six foreign countries during that time period...I get really nostalgic listening to your videos...Thanks so much!
Thank you for watching. I’m so glad that the videos bring back good memories for you! 😊🙏🏻🇹🇭
This is an excellent take on things in the land of smiles.
Very helpful to many, thank you.
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 …
49% to be precise
@@daidavies6210 my Thai wife and I have Land and House, My name is on the paper at the land office as the heir.
Or you can legally use an Attorney as a proxy, they can’t sell it without you.
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,
Yes, crazy, but it still flows. Crazy how that is. Cross the road at your own risk 😂
@@garywayell7211
Nigeria as well. 99% lack driving skills. Just rolling a car down the street without knowing how to do it skillfully is the definition of driving here. They run red lights like there's no Police. They drive on pedestrian sidewalks. They hunk unnecessarily. They do 80 in a residential neighborhood while driving recklessly and dangerously. They create extra driving lanes where non previously existed. To crown it all, the last thing a Police Officer want to be bothered with is all the above mentioned moving violations because the country itself is one where the rule of law and order is absolutely irrelevant or disregarded.
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!
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.
What about the income tax? No one mention about the income tax in Thailand. How do you handle it?
@@marinlaomana7225 TBD. Tax on money arriving into Thailand is the present issue with "details" yet to be determined...
@@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.
@@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.
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.
This is the template for no nonsense informative videos, thank you
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.
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
@@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.
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.
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
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 …
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.
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.
The best thing I have learned in 13 years of living here is that you can always find what you need but not necessarily what you want.
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
Thank you!!!!
@@TheNarrowGate what emplioyment for U.S. ex-pats in Thailand?
The only real visa problem in Thailand is the lack of long term visas for single people under 50 years old. Otherwise the visa system is a little complex but offers a variety of options. Every country has visa requirements and procedures.
Traffic is crazy here simply because there are a lot more motorbikes than westerners are used to. 75% of accidents are motorbike accidents.
Thailand has tropical weather but note that we don’t get cyclones so overall the weather isn’t that bad. And in case you’ve missed it there are weather challenges all over the world these days.
There is dual pricing but the higher price is probably less than in parks & attractions in your home country. I just saw a video showing the entry fee to Cape Canaveral, FL to be $75. 😮 On the flip side I find it nice that entry fees for locals are low enough for poorer families to enjoy these sites.
The non confrontational culture is a blessing compared to western culture. Saving face is a big deal but it is one of many cultural differences in a foreign country and, hey, isn’t culture part of the reason you are here?
Yes you are correct - safety comes last. I used to be an engineer at a US National laboratory. I know safety.
Clothes - no matter what your size you are 1-2 sizes larger in Thailand.
I’m fine with being a foreigner in Thailand. Sometimes that results in extra deference.
I agree, Thailand is awesome 🌴
Agree with all above. All good "problems".
I just bought a 20-year Thailand Elite membership and called it a day.
@@asterisk911 Which was a great choice for people under 50 until they just announced the new rates. I’ve got a 10 year pensioner Long Term Residency visa.
@martypoll wow just saw the new rates! off the charts!
Not true - you can buy Thai Elite, it's only $30000 for 5 years. If you work for Google or Airbnb, and make >$80K a year, you can get 10 years.
For comparison, the average residence by investment in Asia will cost anywhere between $300K - $500K.
So it's not that Thailand doesn't offer long term visas, it's just they are not for backpackers.
But it's all the same in asia - they don't care where you from, they only care how much cash you can bring on the table.
Disappointed? Well Asia isn't the same as it was few decades ago, when an average white dude from the "first world" can get anything he wants for a few dollars and a bowl of rice.
Great to hear Ur honesty and straight forward observations and advice mate about living in thailand
I’ve lived here for 25 years. The visa process is a bit irritating but very easy to manage. Visa agents exist.
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.
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.
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
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.😅
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.
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.
Consider taking a 2 month vacation somewhere south (away from the smoke,phuhket?)?
@@indiandaeng Common misconception which the Thai immigration happily passes around. By law the money does NOT need to be in a Thai bank.
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.
Good job in describing many of the challenges of living in Thailand.
Thank you! 😊 🙏🏻🇹🇭
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.
Thank you 🙏
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.
@@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.
@@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.
@@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.
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.
Wtf are they doing this now?
@@Anomalyy666No they are not. One comment at a news conference that has fed the imagination of fragile expats for a couple of weeks now.
@@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.
Great comment, thank you! Could you please clarify what the problem is with health insurance? I am also getting older! Thank you
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!"
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!!
I lived there for many years. Best thing I ever did was keep a home in the US. I thought the same way until I started getting older. Then the air pollution starting affecting me. Staying under an air purifier months on end is not a life folks. I had a long term GF and immigration is a nightmare after a certain point. Wait until you hit 65-70 and are gasping for air , and have to go to immigration for your 90 day or yearly interrogation. Hardest thing I ever did was leave my long term GF , best thing I ever did was not sell out in the US. Bottom line is it is not a retirement destination what so ever. Next, it is an act of congress to get your wife back to the states. I wanted to live 6 months here and bypass the horrible pollution for 6 months there. Forget it. I finally ended up leaving the country and living in other parts of the world until the air was breathable. But, finally got tired of that. Best of luck to anyone actually living there. You will need it.
👍
"If you are bigger". Yeah just bring your tarp with you to cover your fat ass..People in most of the rest of the world are not freaks.
I have been married to a Thai 43 years and have no more rights than someone who arrived last week.I do my visa on income,it's in the UK and my home is still there.Nothing here is mine,don't want it.Everything I bring in here I accept as gone,that's the only way to stay at peace with the place.
@@thomasjohnrobinson4658 Same here, I am from the US. Most guys watch videos and without ever going to a place believe it's true, and in their mind create this fantasy world. Anyone reading this please go to live in a country one year before you decide to make a life changing decision. After living there for many years I would guess at least 50% of the guys regret moving there and were stuck there. Be careful and take care of your assets.
Can you advise WHERE the pollution is bad ? What cities or areas ?? Many thanks !
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!
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
I'm gonna take advantage of the yes factory. I'll be like my shady uncle that wants more but it super nice
Most impressive about this video is to witness an american that has shed his aggressivity .. Makes me wonder if I can shed mine because of the genuinely Kind people of Thailand
As always great job with the videos. Inspired me to create my checklist for the move next year.
Insightful information provided in an honest manner! Great episode.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I wanna leave the US, just searching for the right place to move to. Thank you for explaining what to expect💯
You’re welcome 😊
Finally a truthful video thank you
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!!
Visa difficult, thats ridiculous !!
@@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.
Hi, thanks for sharing your take. Do you have opinions on getting throigh the burning seasons?
@@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.
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...
❤️👍🇹🇭
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.
I retired Thailand years ago take the good with the bad as you do even in your own country I live in the North the smoke doesn't affect me one bit having said that maybe I'll drop dead tomorrow 😅
I lived in Thailand for a while. Everything you say is pretty accurate. One thing you did not mention is the extreme level of corruption. It is deeply rooted in every aspect of life there, from the bottom to the very top. Thailand effectively has no police, as they are basically organized crime. That is one reason the traffic is so bad, is because in many areas there is zero enforcement against Thais. On the other hand, the police are more than eager to stop a foreigner for the most petty of crimes. It is a beautiful country in some ways, but very difficult to live there. It wasn't worth it for me.
The other thing that really stuck out was the extreme level of alcoholism. Not just Thais, but the majority of foreigners also fell into the bottle. Just in my short 1 year stay, I knew several people that died due to alcoholism.
I lived in USA for 42 years and I am still a foreigner since I am originally from India. Even living in Thailand I am a still considered as a foreigner. Oh well. Live amd let live.
I'm concerned about the driving too. My friends brother died in Thailand, he was on a moped and got into an accident.
Nice video, Tony. Glad you still like living here despite the "realities"... but I guess there are ups and downs in every place!
One of the most honest reviews I have seen on RUclips 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.
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.
I am glad that you pointed out negatives of living in Thailand. Which are all true.
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.
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.
Really? It was a problem back then?
1979 , whaaaat . So how old you are now, 157 , hahaaaa
Thailand is awesome, you just have to mindful of the pitfalls.
Got to agree... I have live in thailand for 10 +years and the best thing I ever did was keep my house in nz...sooner or later the dream ends.
I love your videos thanks for making these!
Thank you very much!
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.
Treated as a foreigner, couldn’t agree more, during my trip to Thailand, I was treated as a 2nd class Thai citizen from isaan, in Thailand if your complexion is a little darker, you’re treated differently
You need to speak English to them instead of speaking Thai.
With 20+ years living in Asia successfully and happily it comes down to attitude. Find the expats who love living here and you will see an attitude of understanding the culture is different. Not sure what to say about someone living with a person for 40 years then leaves them behind. I’ve been married for 40+ years and would die before leaving her behind. It’s about attitude.
The 90 day Report is easy.
Can do this online after the first 90 day report which MUST be done in person. Perfectly reasonable in my mind.
After that the annual renewal of the Retirement VISA is just a formality.
We only need to look at the immigration MESS in USA , UK Europe and Scandinavian nations to see why Thailand is quite keen to have a bit more control. But nothing is perfect, in any nation.
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
90-day check-ins for your visa can be done online.
Yep. After you've done one its a 30 second process. Login, hit the button to populate all the fields with your last info and submit. Done. Also in Chiang Mai, if you prefer to do it in person they have a drive thru that bypasses all the other immigration office lineups. Super easy.
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 😅
Was choosing between Thailand and Taiwan and chose Taiwan despite all the recent political shitstorm.
Taiwan has a much more reasonable residence programs, and in my experience offers much better quality of life for expats and nomads. Air quality is fantastic too, and the weather is chillier - but not too cold. Traffic is much better. People are super friendly and polite, around Taipei most speak English.
man the hell with usa, im moving thailand and retiring. Retiring in usa is GONE.
About visa: If you are working and/or under 50 years old, the Visa process, such as 'Non-O' can be very annoying, even when your purpose is 'taking care of Thai wife'. However, those elder 50Y living here after retirement can get the easy retirement visa (cost 1,900 Baht); you'll get it the same day. All you need is one formula, an actual picture, some few PP copies, an actual bank statement (same day!) confirming that for several months you're always been above 400,000 Baht (10K €) when married or the double, when unmarried. If this little money is an issue, stay at home. Not asked for this kind of visa, but strongly recommended: a sufficient health insurance! The 90-day extension can be easily made online; no cost. Good luck.
I’m currently living in Thailand been coming here for 19 years , every thing you say is correct , but living here far out weighs ,the over rated, over priced , over controlled , over regulated , western country
im planning to live in thailand, and i would like to contact you and have a better understanding of somethings im wondering about. if your time allows it of course.
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
This is one of the best videos I’ve seen about expat life in Thailand
Thanks!!!
We moved to Thailand from the US
It’s been a year we bought a small land and build a house.
-The weather is very hot and smoke season is bad.
-Dealing with the government officer is difficult without bribing them
- humidity gives my ear bad infection from mold
- the heat give me heat exhaustion
- lots of time I got ripped off even I speak fluent Thai ( I’m Thai but lived in US)
- running in to a “mafia” very hard and life threatening (good luck going to the Thai cops)
- the doctor in public hospital are not performing well, very poor diagnoses
+ food and stuff are cheaper
+ nice beach and affordable
+ some really nice and sweet people treat you like family
+ less regulation to build house and stuff
We are considering moving somewhere else😢
Can you further explain the "mafia" issues ??? Examples. THaNKS !
If you want to live in Asia for a year or more I suggest spending three months in Thailand then Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, etc. It's a lot easier to get a triple entry tourist visa for three months than trying to stay longer. Just visit some other ASEAN destinations for variety.
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.
“Living here is a breath of fresh air”……are you really living in Chiang Mai right now?
🤣😂 That’s a good one!!!
❤So glad I heard this. Can’t survive the smoke with my health. Thanks
The smoke can be pretty brutal from
mid-February thru April.
When Americans travel they're not used to a country having restrictions against them because in America everybody is being let in illegally with benefits
Yawn
Say the original illegal immigrants who helped themselves to everything they could grab. Sit yo azz down.
@@mlmontalvolet's talk about your ancestors' crimes and how you take full responsibility for it, shall we?
Everyone? Even if you get a visa, you still get denied entry.
Very down to earth and realistic information
Living in Thailand is not the same as a 2-week vacation. It's not the same reality at all. If you want to be a resident, the first thing you should do is learn Thai. That is essential. Also, you cannot do it alone. You need some kind of support system.
10:20 living here... Yeah, especially when you're dealing with Thai women (the vast majority of them), who want nothing else from you other than your cash. If you're not bothered by paying farang prices, and being scammed just about anywhere you go in Thailand, the place is a dream come true ;-)
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.
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.
1:50 When I got my Thai D/L they didn't require a road test. Just an eye test and a depth perception test. My wife (Thai) took a class, drove twice, and got her D/L. She has no idea how to drive safely and neither do many Thai.
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.
I respect your opinions. I am Thai who has lived in US for 30+ years, I am still a foreigner. Do I feel bad about it? Not anymore, it is reality. However, I am happy you enjoy living in Thailand.
@@jurgschupbach3059 No, I don't. If it's the rule, I will have to comply. I respect the laws and order of where I am.
I think he was joking
With all due respect- it's not the same in the US with regard to being a foreigner. First you can get a green card abd then citizenship entitling you to all rights of someone born and bred there for generations. I'm not sure this is possible on Thailand. Second- Americans come in all colors abd ethnicities. If you walk into a hotel or restaurant no one will assume you are a foreigner because you're Asian or black or Latino. Your color doesn't matter to whether you are perceived as belonging to the country. This stems from America's long history of immigration and assimilation. This is not something thailand can compete with. So you are wrong when you say foreign in the US is equivalent to foreign in Thailand.
@@vmoses1979You are right in that sense but that's not the point I tried to make. I just said about my own experience living in US as an immigrant. But you are wrong because I didn't say foreign in US is equivalent to foreign in Thailand. I agree Thailand can't compete with America about the fact you mentioned, and I don't think Thailand will ever try to compete. However interestingly enough, there are still many foreigners, especially Americans are leaving or trying to leave their homeland for Thailand!
@@Rodderz1 In reality, racism exists everywhere and in every country. It just plays out differently in different places. Some places are more obvious than others. Sadly, some people can only see racism in other places but they will never see it in their own land!
Let's be honest. Digital nomads are individual colonists, nothing more. It is so normal to restrict foreign residency in a country. It is necessary to protect common people.
Lmfao, found a liberal spewing this bs. Stop and learn to cope.
What exactly are you protecting? What is the threat?
With he heat up north now at 36-39C and heat index of 108F, it takes determination to stay during the hot months.
"Safety comes last" = true freedom. Change my mind.
Great information.
Living in Roi Et province in the farming area, not many cars, weather is fine, lived in -20 to +50 so don’t mind the temps, we don’t have AC. Acclimatisation is the key and good house design. For peace and safety, live in the farming areas. Slow pace, no rush and don’t hook up with a Thai bar lady, good for some fun but a farmers girl is a wiser choice
I left the US and now I am happy😊😊😊
...rock solid advice.
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 .....
I know that feeling
Moved here recently and I love it here. But as a car lover I don't believe what I must do to register a car on your name. It's time consuming and expensive.
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. 👍
Wow, thank you!
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
Will do!
thank you for sharing
Go to the Philippines, visa free for one month. It's more fun in the Philippines, you might like it especially if you are vlogging, and the Philippines is the social media capital of the world.
Connectivity is a good thing, because we are suppose to be connected to each other and help one another in any way. In the Philippines, there's a lot of Charity vloggers helping the poorest of the poor that the government cannot reach because those poor are living in the mountain areas.
I have been thinking of this country for a long time. Peacefull and has family values and laws.
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.
I'm a Brit and I have lived in Thailand/Bangkok for more than 12 years. Traffic can sometimes been bad, but I have NEVER had an accident, and I drive every day. Yes, there are crazies, but 90% of drivers are 'normal' and are in fact much more patient and tolerant than Brits and other Europeans! (And I have lived and driven in France, Germany, and Portugal). All I can say is AVOID USING MOTORBIKES/SCOOTERS at all costs. These are DANGEROUS!
Traffic can “sometimes be bad” in Bangkok ?? Sometimes … 😂😂😂
@@ma3stro681 I live in Hwai Khwang/Ratchadaphisek Road area, and traffic is usually heavy but fluid whenever I am driving in this area around 8 am and 5 pm every day. Last time I experienced LONG delays was pre-covid.
Italy has worse drivers - especially Napoli
@@ColGadarbyas Italian I can understand you
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!
Thank you very much for the kind words! 🙂
Great content bro 🌍
ive been living in thailand for 2 years now and i can say that i can speak basic thai. And when people talk to me usually english. And i respond in thai i feel like they treat me as a thai person. after their initial shock xD or maby its just because they respect me that im actually learning their language and cultures. Wich many expats never do.
Chiang Mai is the place. If I was to ever retire in Thailand it would be there. Very honest awesome vid thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it
I paused your video and ran to my laptop from the next room . When you said " life is just more interesting here " . I felt the sincerity in your voice ...the honesty . I've been three times over the past twenty years...I'm from Maine . We here are not like the rest of the USA. we are mostly "blue collar " and grounded in earthly pursuits . However ...my country has changed . It feels toxic and fake these days ...My neighbors are still ok...but sheepish ...numb to the chronic mind indoctrination . This world " government " ideology has got real teeth and is infused in the institutions and ...I believe our children as they learn the ideology . Long story now getting to the point....Thailand isn't as mature hence it's fresh to that indoctrination ...
I'll look you up as I'm on my way ...I started my "elite 5 year visa today !
Thanks for watching, so glad you enjoyed the video!!!
Best of luck on your adventure and yes, please let me know if you’re ever in Chiang Mai & want to meet up. 🇹🇭🙏🏻😊
i feel the same as you. i just phrased it differently. i feel like the western world lost empathy. almost everyones in their head. its all about abstract thinking. concepts. i know i project a lot. i could feel the same in germany as in thailand if i completely resolved my inner conflicts, but it is way harder. eastern countries feel like they still have a heart and soul. those circumstances help me to awaken my emotional self. and yes i know we are biased cos we dont usually have to work when we travel to thailand or not work as hard. but even the ppl there who work hard as fuck i can sense more happiness calmness and presence in them. man germany is such a traumatized country. im a traumatized human as well so i dont wanna blame the outside for how i feel but still... i had this thoguht lately lets say i was an alien from a different planet and i wanted to become as depressed and anxious as possible then id probably choose germany as a country to live in or japan. definitely not thailand. id choose thailand to heal and work on myself. enjoy your stay and enjoy every second of it. im going back to thailand end of november. from there i will travel around SEA, india nepal, sri lanka and live on tourist visa. i want to stay as long as i can work online.