Links promised in the above video are here (2024 Update): vagabondbuddha.com/2019-kuala-lumpur-malaysia-retire-early-cheap/ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗘-𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞→ 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗕𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗽 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱𝘄𝗶𝗱𝗲☆★☆ vagabondbuddha.com/ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗥oad Map to Freedom Overseas (Retire Overseas Course)☆★☆ vagabondbuddha.com/courses/the-retire-overseas-course/ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲 $$$ 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝗯𝗯𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀e vagabondbuddha.com/courses/the-hobby-income-course/ Health Insurance I Bought (Free ebook, Video, Agent): vagabondbuddha.com/expat-health-insurance-ebook/ What kinds of risks are you taking if you move overseas? vagabondbuddha.com/our-liability-disclaimer-the-risk-is-on-you/
Visited KL last December for the first time. My hotel (Traders) was straight across from the Towers 😂 spent a few days hanging around with a Malaysian friend as a guide. KL was so cheap, I found it much cheaper than Thailand. The city itself was a bit overwhelming at first so I will need to come back for a further visit (planned) and I am going to Langkawi this coming June for a visit as well. It is certainly a compelling argument for a long stay location when I retire later this year. Great vlog folks
After 2 years in Thailand, I am in KL for past 2 weeks. So far very impressed with the infrastructure, cleanliness, transport,people, language, food , cost ,etc. will spend the remainder of the 90 days visa exploring the country before making a decision. But so far very impressed
Work KL is great, but retirement there is no visa now for most people, unless you are worth several million dollars. Visa runs are now NOT a good idea. They are stopping people.
@@Natalie_Chu-SG What a weird comment.. I'm currently retired in Penang having spent 18 months in Chiang mai Thailand. I loved Chiangmai and would recommend it as a good option, however there was a major issue with air pollution for 3-4 months because of the burning season which was quite difficult and that's an annual issue. I feel like Malaysia is a bit of an undiscovered gem as it has many of the things I loved about Thailand ( eg amazing food, very safe, affordable luxury condos with amazing amenities, friendly locals, great coffee shops, excellent affordable health and dental care) but has several important pulses over Thailand for me - ie ubiquitous English, excellent infrastructure, much better long term visa situation AND its actually considerably cheaper than Thailand I'm finding, which is surprising as it's much more 'first world'. After Penang I think I'm going to try living in the Cameron Highlands as I love the year round cooler weather and you don't even need Aircon.
Good Job, Bro!!!! In my quest to determine what country I'll relocate to, I've viewed hundreds of videos from many creators. Yours is the best. They are informative and entertaining. Other creators don't understand how far narrating details about a city over video reels of that city will go. This combination kept me entertained while educating me about the cost of living in Malaysia. This is the first video that I've watched of yours. I am looking forward to viewing more. Thanks for all that you do.
Hi, Dan! Your video made me so happy today. I'm doing an exploratory visit to KL and Penang this Spring. You have such a great knowledge of KL and Malaysia. Thank you for your insights. .......by the way, Diva Qiang was totally serving on the Catwalk! 💃
I understand the purpose of this video is to show the costs of living on a budget in KL and KL provides such, but I’d prefer to focus on value. Price is what you pay, value is what you get. A decent apartment in a good neighbourhood like Bangsar, KLCC, Bukit Bintang, Sri Hartamas or Mont Kiara is still relatively affordable at around rm 5k - 8k per month. Cheapest is not always the best and the best is not always expensive.
Great video! Most of the expat videos I've ended up seeing are from the many expats that live in the Philippines, I've only seen relatively few from Malaysia, and KL in particular. One expat, Taylor lives in KL in this awesome high rise condo for cheap - gym, grocery store on the 1st level, etc., he's a foodie so whichever way he walks there are lots of different restaurants and stores. He had similar costs as you had on the low end. I think the barrier to many to KL and Malaysia in general is that large upfront deposit. That may be why the Philippines are so prominant for exparts, the entry and stay requirements are quite low. But the drawbacks (to me) about the Philippines are the infrastructure, utilities, traffic, stray animals...KL looks like it is so very modern, orderly, and well run. I am sure there are areas that have some issues, but it looks great to me!
Most videos are from thailand and philipines expats doing visa run in kl. Locals here do not do cost of living videos of course, we already know the cost obviously. Whether vietnam or thailand is cheaper than us is up to the vloggers. We do not really care much what people do with their lives. What is important for us is low fuel prices, infrastructure, and outstanding medical care at affordable price which most asean countries cannot match.
@@keangwooichoo6138 thank you, I completely agree. It seems there are many places in SE Asia that are "cheaper" to live than the US and other larger countries, but sometimes there's a point of diminshing returns. For example, you can live exceedingly cheap deep in the remote "provinces" in the Philippines, but things like electricity, running water, paved roads, etc., might be suspect. From what I've seen via videos, and heard about from other people on RUclips, KL just seems like a superb city!
Yesterday was the first time I watched one of your videos and I enjoyed it so much I have been binge watching nearly all day today. I see myself back in VN or KL within the next year. I'm not a stranger to Asia but I am learning a great deal from your videos that I didn't know.
Hi there, I'm a Malaysian born and raised here. I've been following your channel and others for a few months now on retirement planning and where is the best place to retire in South East Asia (SEA). Trust me as a citizen of this country... in Kuala Lumpur, you'll need a bare minimum of USD1900 to USD2100 to retire here in 2024 (based on the current exchange rate), somewhat comfortably. That includes some entertainment on the weekends without any internal vacations or travels. If you include those, it will cost you more. Water and laundry cannot be zero unless the place you're renting comes with filtered water dispenser and a washing machine. Bear in mind Malaysia is one of the most expensive places in SEA for alcohol. So if you like drinking, good luck! And transport is not exactly cheap if you don't own your own transport. However, public transport is fairly good and cheap, if you're not in a rush to get some where. Grab should only be used during non peak hours, otherwise it would cost you double the rate or more.
Hi @sathisk, Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: ruclips.net/video/ySM_2jAC4v4/видео.html Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or RUclips channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan
Hello Dan and thank you for all the information you put out in your videos. I sincerely appreciate it. I hope you won't delete this comment as I really want to caution those visiting or living in Kuala Lumpur to avoid Gleneagles especially the ER as I had very very substandard care there and at a high cost. Additionally had quite a struggle to get proper paperwork for my insurance (as they didn't provide proper care). I do hope the other hospitals are better!
Great channel, just watched a couple of the Vietnam vids from a couple weeks ago, one thing I didn't catch if it was talked about was what about language barriers if one doesn't speak the language
It's very possible that folks coming from big metropolises like London, New York, Los Angeles and Toronto don't get excited about Kuala Lumpur and all its skyscrapers!!
I come from Los Angeles and have been to all these places you mentioned and my jaw dropped when I saw the skyline here. The beauty surpass the places you mentioned.
I think both of you are spoiled for choices, having been almost everywhere. My Swiss wife lived in my hometown of Melaka for 15 years and we liked it becos it is very local. I do not think places other than KL and Penang are conservative. More a matter of perception and acceptance.And we have lived in Zurich for over 20 years, one of the most liberal cities in the world and we do not miss it even though it is quite a great place. We liked the idea more of being actually in the East. Believe it or not we have never been to KL other than the airport.
Very detailed - those apartments are incredible values. Love KL - used to go every Nov before Covid. Airfares (at least for One World carriers) have been ridiculous since the world reopened- hoping I can get something this yr. Hoping they relax the retirement rules - or I could teach IT/computing part time - having to leave every 90 days for 90 days would get old.
I just spent 2 months in KL and to tell you the truth I was glad to go back to Thailand. Way more fun in Thailand. The weather in KL was generally not very good....hot with lots of rain...hard to plan a day out. Checked out most of the unique attractions which was nice, Malacca, Penang. A word of warning,,,Dont do the Costa cruise out of Port Klangg...total rip off. Crazy traffic. I didnt care for the food in general, and lots of street food has been sitting out for how long??? Very conservative population...mostly Muslim. Got woke up most mornings at 6 am with morning prayers blasted out of speakers up on minarets. Most were tone deaf. Your experience may be very different but for me I had been looking forward to going to Malaysia and in end have no desire tp go back.
I haven't noticed much weather difference from Thailand. I find the people of Malaysia heart warming. When I book apartments, I don't book near Mosques. So I don't hear the call to prayer. If that bothers you, look on Google Maps before you book. They are shown on Google Maps. Malaysia is known for its amazing food and that is one of the things I love most about it.
I really enjoy how you break these down and add b-roll of your time there. I thought KL would have been so much more expensive. Though I know a 1 month stay rent could be more costly.
The people of Malaysia are just friendlier all around than those in Thailand. However there is a greater sense of apathy in Malaysia than in Thailand, and it's reflected in the infrastructure, which is a bit better. Both are great though.
KL looks like an interesting place to visit, but I agree with you Dan, I would likely be discouraged by the conservatism of Malaysia as a whole to live there full time. If people aren't allowed to be weird or take chances .. do interesting things .. then people just wind up keeping in their lanes and become afraid of trying new things or even connecting bridges with other cultures, ways of living life. In other words .. boring. But, I'm def looking forward to a visit to KL! Thanks for the info and vid!
@@persada5913 Yes, of course. I did not say anything about wanting to act in any type of disrespectful way. My point was that I would not look to make Malaysia my home if I would have to follow strict societal rules every day. That is also what Dan was alluding to. A visit? Great. To live under conservative practices at all times? No thanks.
Could you spend some time talking about the heat and humidity levels in KL? Is it like living in a sauna, requiring a person to be confined to air conditioning 24/7??
@@VagabondAwake Nice, but you still have to run the AC 24/7, with hopes that the electrical grid is stronger than in California where they are always facing brownouts, and the Woke can't even maintain the current grid.
M City is where Andrew Taylor lives. American expat retired there. He has a youtube channel. Did you already interview him? I seem to remember the two of you together. Either you interviewed him or the other way round.🤔
Hi Dan I enjoy your videos. We are heading to Kuala Lumpur next week, then hope to peel off to Georgetown. Mostly because of your videos. Question about tipping. Whats customary. We live in Hawaii, so food is really expensinve. Were used to tipping a lot. If I got a nice 3.00 meal, I'd be inclined to tip a ton, since the Hawaiian equivelent would be a lot more. Is there something thats customary? Thanks in advance, Jim
*Welcome to Malaysia truly Asia good food, good people beautiful beach, GOOD DURIAN TOO , skyscrapers & others, Msian likes to lepak Restaurant Mamak drink Teh Tarik, Likes to joining Malaysian just asking, **1:56** Welcome 🇲🇾💙🧡♥️💙🇲🇾*
You tend to go to very low cost of living places, but you can rent a place in Western Tokyo near Tachikawa or Ome for $6-700 a month with the current exchange rate. Inflation over the past 3 decades has been almost non-existent making it cheaper to live than many places in the U.S. or EU. Go outside to Tokyo and it’s even cheaper like the interview you did for the guy in Okinawa. Something to consider…
For a studio to 1-bedroom yes, there are some parks but not as many as there could be. I would look at Numbeo and you can compare the cost of a city in Japan to your own city as a fairly decent cost comparison.
People often forget these are basic living costs, medical insurance is vital for example. In KL a car is essential long term as well, as very frustrating without one especially in expat areas such as Mont Kiara where public transport basically doesn't exist. I would say KL isn't a great retirement city, I loved being there for work 8 years, but for retirement 'hell no'. Malacca or Penang are better for that. Also don't forget insane fx fluctuations - I went their first at 3.3 RM to USD. Been 4.7 to dollar recently. Great for dollar earning retires, nor RM earners. Also Malaysian government is saying "no poor retirees" and the MM2H requirements are now insanely high. PR with a 2 million dollar investment is now cheaper in effect! You BTW cannot use the East Malaysia MM2H to stay in the mainland. The mainland info given is 100% wrong!
Officials from all three of these governments have shared this information with reporters who published it. Sadly, they can always drag their feet on implementation and change the rules whenever they want. I have no control over that. Thanks for sharing and let me know if you hear any updates.
I would love to live in a boat at Rebak resort but at my age (73) and not so perfect health not sure if a good idea - Would have to search my insurance and Oz pension rule's and living costs..
Any idea about how much medical insurance would add to the bill (for those of us who want it)? Also, do you have thoughts on traveling with a back pack vs a rolling suitcase?
Great question @StevenBrener, I have one report where I explain what I do about health care and another where I show you how I search for health insurance, and a third report sharing which one I decided to finally buy. What I do about health care: vagabondbuddha.com/two-biggest-risks-of-retiring-early-overseas/ Report where I search for health insurance: vagabondbuddha.com/best-health-insurance-for-ex-pats-in-philippines/ Here is the Health Insurance I bought (and scams to avoid): ruclips.net/video/0leF_BCLVKw/видео.html By the way, once you search for health care you will start seeing more offers for health insurance and travelers insurance when you are online. Health insurance is one of the most dynamic or changing industries in the travel world because so many people around the world are deciding to live or retire outside their home country. So do a search every year before you renew to make sure you have the best available for your personal circumstances because new ones come out every few months. Thanks for asking so I could answer this for many people! Dan
Need to mention Isreal passport not accepted or welcome in Malaysia, I have spent alot of time in Malaysia over last 8 years and have grown to love Malaysia
Thanks for sharing. Officials from all three of these governments have shared this information with reporters that published it. Sadly, they can always drag their feet on implementation and change the rules whenever they want. I have no control over that. Thanks for sharing and let me know if you hear any updates.
What country provides the most visitors to Thailand? China? India? Western Europe? North America? No, no. Malaysians! That’s what I recently read. There must be a reason why Malaysians, who live right next door, want to come and visit Thailand.
We are neighbours and infact Southern Thailand Malays are closely related to us. Easier to visit neighbouring countries just like the Thais visiting us, for different experiences.
All over the world, people generally visit places they can get to really easily. You can drive there from Malaysia or geta round trip ticket for $60-$80 USD.
@totallyraw1313, Here is how we find cheap apartments all over the world now. Watch the video and read the text to get all of our tips: vagabondbuddha.com/how-i-find-perfect-apartments-traveling-the-world/ Thanks, Dan
How do they define "Clean bill of health?" I'm 71, and have had three heart attacks, the last being in 2010. I'm also Type 2 diabetic. Would either of these exclude me?
tourism & living are totally different things. For instance I consider East Tennessee a great place to live but understand why its hardly a 1st rate tourist destination for visitors to the U.S.
@richardclair2779, Here is how we find cheap apartments all over the world now. For short term rents we use Airbnb. For longer ... Watch the video and read the text to get all of our tips: vagabondbuddha.com/how-i-find-perfect-apartments-traveling-the-world/ Thanks, Dan
I have been trying to learn Italian for a few years, my plan was to move and live out retirement in Italy but there are many restrictions and requirements and hurdles to accomplish this, perhaps I was meant more to follow in your footsteps and travel as a vagabond ;) I love watching your videos, my only question would be about the exchange of US dollars for the required foreign currencies. How do you pay for things, by credit card? i like the prospect of the Philippines because at least English is spoken there, btw, I love watching Quaing walk ;)
Hi @anthonynork8868, I have two reports that are relevant to your question. My international banking mistakes, and my free Ebook both cover topics on this subject. Here you go! vagabondbuddha.com/top-banking-mistakes-i-learned-living-internationally/ vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/ Thanks for watching and commenting! Dan
At the moment, the Peninsular retirement visas programme (MM2H) is suspended. Sarawak retirement visas (S-MM2H) are taking 15 months to process. Sabah retirement visas do not exist.
Thanks for sharing. Officials from all three of these governments have posted the information shared in this video. Sadly, they can always drag their feet on implementation and change the rules whenever they want. I have no control over that. Thanks for sharing.
With regard to meals, I always consider the healthiness of the meat. In my country meat controls are very strict. The use of antibiotics, growth accelerators and other medications are strictly prohibited. In Asian countries regulation is much less to none at all, mostly corrupt. This means that eating meat can be very unhealthy. So the price of food is questionable or at least verry bad for your health. I always eat vegetarian when abroad.
@@camillawilliams3954 Interesting that my comment recommending mebendazole was deleted. Residents and expats in Vietnam take them and it is not at all controversial.
They are very similar. It depends more on the lifestyle you pick rather than the place you pick, although cities are generally more than small towns in both. Thailand has better retirement visa terms.
Links promised in the above video are here (2024 Update):
vagabondbuddha.com/2019-kuala-lumpur-malaysia-retire-early-cheap/
𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗘-𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞→ 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗕𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱
vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/
𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗽 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱𝘄𝗶𝗱𝗲☆★☆
vagabondbuddha.com/
𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗥oad Map to Freedom Overseas (Retire Overseas Course)☆★☆
vagabondbuddha.com/courses/the-retire-overseas-course/
𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲 $$$ 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝗯𝗯𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀e
vagabondbuddha.com/courses/the-hobby-income-course/
Health Insurance I Bought (Free ebook, Video, Agent):
vagabondbuddha.com/expat-health-insurance-ebook/
What kinds of risks are you taking if you move overseas?
vagabondbuddha.com/our-liability-disclaimer-the-risk-is-on-you/
how often do you update your lifetime reports?
Visited KL last December for the first time. My hotel (Traders) was straight across from the Towers 😂 spent a few days hanging around with a Malaysian friend as a guide. KL was so cheap, I found it much cheaper than Thailand. The city itself was a bit overwhelming at first so I will need to come back for a further visit (planned) and I am going to Langkawi this coming June for a visit as well. It is certainly a compelling argument for a long stay location when I retire later this year. Great vlog folks
After 2 years in Thailand, I am in KL for past 2 weeks. So far very impressed with the infrastructure, cleanliness, transport,people, language, food , cost ,etc. will spend the remainder of the 90 days visa exploring the country before making a decision. But so far very impressed
Work KL is great, but retirement there is no visa now for most people, unless you are worth several million dollars. Visa runs are now NOT a good idea. They are stopping people.
stop lying
@@Natalie_Chu-SG Stop being a toxic.
@@Natalie_Chu-SG What a weird comment..
I'm currently retired in Penang having spent 18 months in Chiang mai Thailand.
I loved Chiangmai and would recommend it as a good option, however there was a major issue with air pollution for 3-4 months because of the burning season which was quite difficult and that's an annual issue.
I feel like Malaysia is a bit of an undiscovered gem as it has many of the things I loved about Thailand ( eg amazing food, very safe, affordable luxury condos with amazing amenities, friendly locals, great coffee shops, excellent affordable health and dental care) but has several important pulses over Thailand for me - ie ubiquitous English, excellent infrastructure, much better long term visa situation AND its actually considerably cheaper than Thailand I'm finding, which is surprising as it's much more 'first world'.
After Penang I think I'm going to try living in the Cameron Highlands as I love the year round cooler weather and you don't even need Aircon.
@@willsmith39 weird comment from malasian 🤮🤮🤮🤮
Kuala Lumpur looks like a real gem. You almost have me convinced to move abroad again.
Super helpful video on Kuala Lumpur's cost of living! Makes moving there seem more realistic and planned. 👍
Good Job, Bro!!!! In my quest to determine what country I'll relocate to, I've viewed hundreds of videos from many creators. Yours is the best. They are informative and entertaining. Other creators don't understand how far narrating details about a city over video reels of that city will go. This combination kept me entertained while educating me about the cost of living in Malaysia. This is the first video that I've watched of yours. I am looking forward to viewing more. Thanks for all that you do.
Welcome to affordable living in KL, Malaysia. Splendid vlog and monthly budget for the real cost of living in KL.
Thank you! Clever to break out the possible optional stuff to make it easy for us teetotalers ❤
Thank you, Kuala Lumpur is on the top of my list of places for me to retire!
Hi, Dan! Your video made me so happy today. I'm doing an exploratory visit to KL and Penang this Spring. You have such a great knowledge of KL and Malaysia. Thank you for your insights. .......by the way, Diva Qiang was totally serving on the Catwalk! 💃
This is where I met my wife. We've been married for 16 years now and have 12 kids.Alhamdulilah. (Say Ma Shaa Allah / God bless your and your family..)
👀
I am guessing you guys never bought a TV!! 😂😂😂😂
TV's are for simps.@@timbrock2785
Netflix and chill every night😂
Now you need to build her a monument like the Taj Mahal. 😂
I understand the purpose of this video is to show the costs of living on a budget in KL and KL provides such, but I’d prefer to focus on value. Price is what you pay, value is what you get. A decent apartment in a good neighbourhood like Bangsar, KLCC, Bukit Bintang, Sri Hartamas or Mont Kiara is still relatively affordable at around rm 5k - 8k per month. Cheapest is not always the best and the best is not always expensive.
Thanks for sharing
Great video! Most of the expat videos I've ended up seeing are from the many expats that live in the Philippines, I've only seen relatively few from Malaysia, and KL in particular. One expat, Taylor lives in KL in this awesome high rise condo for cheap - gym, grocery store on the 1st level, etc., he's a foodie so whichever way he walks there are lots of different restaurants and stores. He had similar costs as you had on the low end. I think the barrier to many to KL and Malaysia in general is that large upfront deposit. That may be why the Philippines are so prominant for exparts, the entry and stay requirements are quite low. But the drawbacks (to me) about the Philippines are the infrastructure, utilities, traffic, stray animals...KL looks like it is so very modern, orderly, and well run. I am sure there are areas that have some issues, but it looks great to me!
Did you see when I interviewed Taylor on a previous video?
@@VagabondAwake Oh yes, actually I just remembered! Doh! 😂
Most videos are from thailand and philipines expats doing visa run in kl. Locals here do not do cost of living videos of course, we already know the cost obviously.
Whether vietnam or thailand is cheaper than us is up to the vloggers. We do not really care much what people do with their lives.
What is important for us is low fuel prices, infrastructure, and outstanding medical care at affordable price which most asean countries cannot match.
@@keangwooichoo6138 thank you, I completely agree. It seems there are many places in SE Asia that are "cheaper" to live than the US and other larger countries, but sometimes there's a point of diminshing returns. For example, you can live exceedingly cheap deep in the remote "provinces" in the Philippines, but things like electricity, running water, paved roads, etc., might be suspect. From what I've seen via videos, and heard about from other people on RUclips, KL just seems like a superb city!
Yesterday was the first time I watched one of your videos and I enjoyed it so much I have been binge watching nearly all day today. I see myself back in VN or KL within the next year. I'm not a stranger to Asia but I am learning a great deal from your videos that I didn't know.
Welcome aboard!
Hi there, I'm a Malaysian born and raised here. I've been following your channel and others for a few months now on retirement planning and where is the best place to retire in South East Asia (SEA). Trust me as a citizen of this country... in Kuala Lumpur, you'll need a bare minimum of USD1900 to USD2100 to retire here in 2024 (based on the current exchange rate), somewhat comfortably. That includes some entertainment on the weekends without any internal vacations or travels. If you include those, it will cost you more. Water and laundry cannot be zero unless the place you're renting comes with filtered water dispenser and a washing machine. Bear in mind Malaysia is one of the most expensive places in SEA for alcohol. So if you like drinking, good luck! And transport is not exactly cheap if you don't own your own transport. However, public transport is fairly good and cheap, if you're not in a rush to get some where. Grab should only be used during non peak hours, otherwise it would cost you double the rate or more.
Hi @sathisk, Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: ruclips.net/video/ySM_2jAC4v4/видео.html
Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/
Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or RUclips channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan
i found on Airbnb some great apartments for like 800 usd wich means for long term less for sure ... 2100 usd sounds ridicullous
I agree. He must have some exotic habits... @@pentrubarbati
My apologies. I forgot to mention that figure includes living with your partner but with no kids.... @@croissants1280
dis gusting malasian 🤮🤮🤮
Thank you for another informative and entertaining discussion!
Glad you enjoyed it!
thanks for the great info as usual 🙏
Hey Kevin! Great to hear from you. :-) I hope you are well.
Hello Dan and thank you for all the information you put out in your videos. I sincerely appreciate it. I hope you won't delete this comment as I really want to caution those visiting or living in Kuala Lumpur to avoid Gleneagles especially the ER as I had very very substandard care there and at a high cost. Additionally had quite a struggle to get proper paperwork for my insurance (as they didn't provide proper care). I do hope the other hospitals are better!
Thanks for sharing.
I was just there in January. I loved it. So much to see and do. I found a coin laundry there and they had driers. Very cheap.
Great Video very well done and so informative
Great channel, just watched a couple of the Vietnam vids from a couple weeks ago, one thing I didn't catch if it was talked about was what about language barriers if one doesn't speak the language
Not much language barrier here.
It's very possible that folks coming from big metropolises like London, New York, Los Angeles and Toronto don't get excited about Kuala Lumpur and all its skyscrapers!!
I come from Los Angeles and have been to all these places you mentioned and my jaw dropped when I saw the skyline here. The beauty surpass the places you mentioned.
I think both of you are spoiled for choices, having been almost everywhere. My Swiss wife lived in my hometown of Melaka for 15 years and we liked it becos it is very local. I do not think places other than KL and Penang are conservative. More a matter of perception and acceptance.And we have lived in Zurich for over 20 years, one of the most liberal cities in the world and we do not miss it even though it is quite a great place. We liked the idea more of being actually in the East. Believe it or not we have never been to KL other than the airport.
Very detailed - those apartments are incredible values. Love KL - used to go every Nov before Covid. Airfares (at least for One World carriers) have been ridiculous since the world reopened- hoping I can get something this yr. Hoping they relax the retirement rules - or I could teach IT/computing part time - having to leave every 90 days for 90 days would get old.
Informative vlog !❤
Thanks Dan
I just spent 2 months in KL and to tell you the truth I was glad to go back to Thailand. Way more fun in Thailand. The weather in KL was generally not very good....hot with lots of rain...hard to plan a day out.
Checked out most of the unique attractions which was nice, Malacca, Penang. A word of warning,,,Dont do the Costa cruise out of Port Klangg...total rip off.
Crazy traffic. I didnt care for the food in general, and lots of street food has been sitting out for how long??? Very conservative population...mostly Muslim. Got woke up most mornings at 6 am with morning prayers blasted out of speakers up on minarets. Most were tone deaf.
Your experience may be very different but for me I had been looking forward to going to Malaysia and in end have no desire tp go back.
Ah yes because Thailand isn't hot.....
Morning prayers blasted at 6 am...sounds like heaven ! In many moslim areas e.g. in Java (Indonesia) you can hear them between 3 and 4 am...
@@LodeNid How do people manage? Java was predominantly Hindu I thought? Thanks.
I haven't noticed much weather difference from Thailand. I find the people of Malaysia heart warming. When I book apartments, I don't book near Mosques. So I don't hear the call to prayer. If that bothers you, look on Google Maps before you book. They are shown on Google Maps. Malaysia is known for its amazing food and that is one of the things I love most about it.
Qiang is tall. Well done dan for calculating cost. For locals rm 2000 is quite good for rent and food. Transport is not so much.
Dan - excellent video. Thanks for the information share. Safe travels..
Thanks, you too!
Those visa requirements are outrageous 😮
They are going after high end retirees for sure.
Thanks for the info!
Another good informative video. Thanks!
Our pleasure!
I really enjoy how you break these down and add b-roll of your time there.
I thought KL would have been so much more expensive. Though I know a 1 month stay rent could be more costly.
The people of Malaysia are just friendlier all around than those in Thailand. However there is a greater sense of apathy in Malaysia than in Thailand, and it's reflected in the infrastructure, which is a bit better. Both are great though.
Jez you guys get around ..
Good job, Dan !
KL looks like an interesting place to visit, but I agree with you Dan, I would likely be discouraged by the conservatism of Malaysia as a whole to live there full time. If people aren't allowed to be weird or take chances .. do interesting things .. then people just wind up keeping in their lanes and become afraid of trying new things or even connecting bridges with other cultures, ways of living life. In other words .. boring. But, I'm def looking forward to a visit to KL! Thanks for the info and vid!
I like variety. I am happy Malaysia isn't just another Thailand. :-)
When you're in rome do as the romans do! Same way, you come to Malaysia you follow their rules and way of life not your whim!
@@persada5913 Yes, of course. I did not say anything about wanting to act in any type of disrespectful way. My point was that I would not look to make Malaysia my home if I would have to follow strict societal rules every day. That is also what Dan was alluding to. A visit? Great. To live under conservative practices at all times? No thanks.
Dan, oh Dan!!! Dan my friend!!! This was supposed to be Catwalk for 5 minutes.... What happened!! Hehehe! Best always!!
Could you spend some time talking about the heat and humidity levels in KL? Is it like living in a sauna, requiring a person to be confined to air conditioning 24/7??
We just do everything outside before noon and after 4pm. On hot days ... think Siesta.
@@VagabondAwake Nice, but you still have to run the AC 24/7, with hopes that the electrical grid is stronger than in California where they are always facing brownouts, and the Woke can't even maintain the current grid.
I didn’t know your wife was a model- that makes sense. She’s very photogenic What kind of camera do you use?
ipone 14 and Go Pro 9.
M City is where Andrew Taylor lives. American expat retired there. He has a youtube channel. Did you already interview him? I seem to remember the two of you together. Either you interviewed him or the other way round.🤔
I know. Did you see me interview him on my channel?
@@VagabondAwake I kind of remember the two of you together, but wasn't sure whose channel. Both probably.
Hi Dan I enjoy your videos. We are heading to Kuala Lumpur next week, then hope to peel off to Georgetown. Mostly because of your videos. Question about tipping. Whats customary. We live in Hawaii, so food is really expensinve. Were used to tipping a lot. If I got a nice 3.00 meal, I'd be inclined to tip a ton, since the Hawaiian equivelent would be a lot more. Is there something thats customary? Thanks in advance,
Jim
FYI, Tipping is not the practice or culture here in Malaysia.
Some expensive restaurants add 8 to 10% to the bill. Some Malaysians don't tip, some do. Qiang doesn't tip usually. If I am paying, I do.
Bangkok you can retire 500usd per month, the gov allows you to buy cheap properties, but not sure about visa
If you want more relax and well connected to convenience , try suburban areas surrounding KL, cheaper and more chill
*Welcome to Malaysia truly Asia good food, good people beautiful beach, GOOD DURIAN TOO , skyscrapers & others, Msian likes to lepak Restaurant Mamak drink Teh Tarik, Likes to joining Malaysian just asking, **1:56** Welcome 🇲🇾💙🧡♥️💙🇲🇾*
Malaysia is àn awesome country i hv stayed for 4 years before
You tend to go to very low cost of living places, but you can rent a place in Western Tokyo near Tachikawa or Ome for $6-700 a month with the current exchange rate. Inflation over the past 3 decades has been almost non-existent making it cheaper to live than many places in the U.S. or EU. Go outside to Tokyo and it’s even cheaper like the interview you did for the guy in Okinawa. Something to consider…
Is that for a small studio? Are there park etc. in that area? How are food, electrical costs.. etc.? Sorry for all the questions!
For a studio to 1-bedroom yes, there are some parks but not as many as there could be. I would look at Numbeo and you can compare the cost of a city in Japan to your own city as a fairly decent cost comparison.
Thanks for sharing!
Dan is so luck having a great Malaysian partner. I wish I could be so lucky too.
Malaysians have an amazing passport. They can go almost anywhere without a visa, just like Americans and Europeans, etc.
Do you have favorite beaches near KL? Any hot springs?
People often forget these are basic living costs, medical insurance is vital for example. In KL a car is essential long term as well, as very frustrating without one especially in expat areas such as Mont Kiara where public transport basically doesn't exist.
I would say KL isn't a great retirement city, I loved being there for work 8 years, but for retirement 'hell no'. Malacca or Penang are better for that.
Also don't forget insane fx fluctuations - I went their first at 3.3 RM to USD. Been 4.7 to dollar recently. Great for dollar earning retires, nor RM earners.
Also Malaysian government is saying "no poor retirees" and the MM2H requirements are now insanely high. PR with a 2 million dollar investment is now cheaper in effect!
You BTW cannot use the East Malaysia MM2H to stay in the mainland. The mainland info given is 100% wrong!
Officials from all three of these governments have shared this information with reporters who published it. Sadly, they can always drag their feet on implementation and change the rules whenever they want. I have no control over that. Thanks for sharing and let me know if you hear any updates.
I would love to live in a boat at Rebak resort but at my age (73) and not so perfect health not sure if a good idea - Would have to search my insurance and Oz pension rule's and living costs..
Nice advice. Ingesting micro plastics is optional though...
Sorry. What?
Any idea about how much medical insurance would add to the bill (for those of us who want it)? Also, do you have thoughts on traveling with a back pack vs a rolling suitcase?
Great question @StevenBrener, I have one report where I explain what I do about health care and another where I show you how I search for health insurance, and a third report sharing which one I decided to finally buy.
What I do about health care: vagabondbuddha.com/two-biggest-risks-of-retiring-early-overseas/
Report where I search for health insurance: vagabondbuddha.com/best-health-insurance-for-ex-pats-in-philippines/
Here is the Health Insurance I bought (and scams to avoid): ruclips.net/video/0leF_BCLVKw/видео.html
By the way, once you search for health care you will start seeing more offers for health insurance and travelers insurance when you are online. Health insurance is one of the most dynamic or changing industries in the travel world because so many people around the world are deciding to live or retire outside their home country. So do a search every year before you renew to make sure you have the best available for your personal circumstances because new ones come out every few months. Thanks for asking so I could answer this for many people! Dan
Omg you are in KL. I'm here traveling the world and in KL until March 15th. Would love to meet you two if possible. A cup of coffee maybe?
We would love to but schedule is prohibitive between now and when we leave. So sorry.
@@VagabondAwake I totally understand. Thank you for all the videos you create. They are very inspiring!
Need to mention Isreal passport not accepted or welcome in Malaysia, I have spent alot of time in Malaysia over last 8 years and have grown to love Malaysia
Thanks for sharing.
Maybe you will run into "Gotta World to See" guy in his white pants strolling along the avenue.
Hi Dan. I’m in Penang. I’ll be in KL in 2 days. Love it here but it’s a bit hot
People here do stuff in the morning and afternoon. Think Siesta. :-)
Revised MM2H requirements are still NOT AGREED for KL ! Eg monthly foreign income c.a $ 8000 minimum currently... Been here 15 years
Thanks for sharing. Officials from all three of these governments have shared this information with reporters that published it. Sadly, they can always drag their feet on implementation and change the rules whenever they want. I have no control over that. Thanks for sharing and let me know if you hear any updates.
@@VagabondAwake no problem. Enjoy your stay.
Wow Malaysia is expensive I only pay 450 dollars a month to rent a flat in uk 😊
I'll bet the flat you rent in UK is about $200 here.
What country provides the most visitors to Thailand? China? India? Western Europe? North America? No, no. Malaysians! That’s what I recently read. There must be a reason why Malaysians, who live right next door, want to come and visit Thailand.
Some of people in Kuala Lumpur are very rude compared to Thailand. And most young girls in Malaysia are Muslims.
I believe many malay people go to Hat Yai and surroundings during weekends...
We are neighbours and infact Southern Thailand Malays are closely related to us. Easier to visit neighbouring countries just like the Thais visiting us, for different experiences.
All over the world, people generally visit places they can get to really easily. You can drive there from Malaysia or geta round trip ticket for $60-$80 USD.
Dan, if one is doing an exploratory visit of KL, where is the best place to find a furnished 1 bedroom apartment to rent for 1-3 months? Airbnb?
@totallyraw1313, Here is how we find cheap apartments all over the world now. Watch the video and read the text to get all of our tips:
vagabondbuddha.com/how-i-find-perfect-apartments-traveling-the-world/
Thanks,
Dan
"...Malaysia is still largely undiscovered by Westerners..." and let's keep it that way Dan ;>).
To late, I told all my friends. We are on our way.
Hey there,
That’s the second time today I hear someone say “wet market”. When at a market. Why do they call it a wet market???
Thanks,
Scotty B
Because the floor is always wet from water in the fruits and vegetables area and blood in the meats area.
How do they define "Clean bill of health?" I'm 71, and have had three heart attacks, the last being in 2010. I'm also Type 2 diabetic. Would either of these exclude me?
Sorry, I don't know the answer to that question. Maybe they mean communicable diseases?
I was in Malaysia for about a week and I could not find many places to go as a tourist. This is not a fun place to live.
tourism & living are totally different things. For instance I consider East Tennessee a great place to live but understand why its hardly a 1st rate tourist destination for visitors to the U.S.
The goal is to find what you love. Sounds like it is Thailand for you. But I have fun in in Malaysia and Thailand.
I am looking to rent for two months for November and January in KL which are the best rental sites for this?
@richardclair2779, Here is how we find cheap apartments all over the world now. For short term rents we use Airbnb. For longer ... Watch the video and read the text to get all of our tips:
vagabondbuddha.com/how-i-find-perfect-apartments-traveling-the-world/
Thanks,
Dan
I have been trying to learn Italian for a few years, my plan was to move and live out retirement in Italy but there are many restrictions and requirements and hurdles to accomplish this, perhaps I was meant more to follow in your footsteps and travel as a vagabond ;) I love watching your videos, my only question would be about the exchange of US dollars for the required foreign currencies. How do you pay for things, by credit card? i like the prospect of the Philippines because at least English is spoken there, btw, I love watching Quaing walk ;)
Hi @anthonynork8868, I have two reports that are relevant to your question.
My international banking mistakes, and my free Ebook both cover topics on this subject. Here you go!
vagabondbuddha.com/top-banking-mistakes-i-learned-living-internationally/
vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/
Thanks for watching and commenting!
Dan
Have u vlogged JB jahor bahru instead of staying in Singapore?
Not yet. :-)
At the moment, the Peninsular retirement visas programme (MM2H) is suspended. Sarawak retirement visas (S-MM2H) are taking 15 months to process. Sabah retirement visas do not exist.
Thanks for sharing. Officials from all three of these governments have posted the information shared in this video. Sadly, they can always drag their feet on implementation and change the rules whenever they want. I have no control over that. Thanks for sharing.
Why don't you include health insurance and health care costs in your estimate?
Health care is so cheap in many of these countries, I didn't buy health insurance my first 17 years.
Are those calculations per couple or a single person?
For us two. But many people spend more, so depends on you.
Are you still there? I'm in Ipoh, then to KL on Tues.
Yes, we leave Sunday. :-)
@VagabondAwake Dan, do you have time to meet up and say Hi?
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Hi How do u get a bank account? Thank you
Google "Vagabond Awake International Banking Mistakes"
With regard to meals, I always consider the healthiness of the meat.
In my country meat controls are very strict. The use of antibiotics, growth accelerators and other medications are strictly prohibited.
In Asian countries regulation is much less to none at all, mostly corrupt. This means that eating meat can be very unhealthy.
So the price of food is questionable or at least verry bad for your health.
I always eat vegetarian when abroad.
Sure. But be sure to take deworming tablets every 6 months, you get worms from those veggies you don't cook.
@@formica.That applies for everybody.
@@camillawilliams3954 Interesting that my comment recommending mebendazole was deleted. Residents and expats in Vietnam take them and it is not at all controversial.
As an American living in asia, how do you prepare for an event where you lose your passport and id card?
Go to the nearest embassy or consulate.
Can a discreet gay couple travel to Malaysia and feel safe? Malaysia looks amazing. Can't wait to see you cover Penang region.
Yes. Just don't do PDA in public.
Wouldnt recomend it, Religion of peace and all that.
I think he meant not raising eyebrows when checking into hotels....@@VagabondAwake
I wouldn't go there as a gay couple.
thanks for other meaningful video for me 😊
cheaper for long term life, malaysia or thailand?
They are very similar. It depends more on the lifestyle you pick rather than the place you pick, although cities are generally more than small towns in both. Thailand has better retirement visa terms.