I am American and I recently returned to the US after two total years living in Thailand and many of the things mentioned in the US I was aware of. So glad to return to Thailand after a few weeks of visiting family and a few friends. I finished selling what I had stored at my son’s home and my life is more chill here in Thailand.
Same scenario for me, except that I live in Bali, Indonesia. Haven't been to Thailand yet, but I will visit eventually. Love Bali though. A big eye opener for me was when I went home to NY a year ago to visit family for a month. First morning there, my brother and I went to a deli for an egg sandwich breakfast and coffee, for a grand total of $12.87. I was like, "are you f'ing kidding me." I can eat well 3 meals a day for 3 days on $12.87 here in Bali, and still have some change left over! The money I spent in one month in the US would sustain me at a higher standard here in Bali for a whole year, and I say that after staying with family and friends for that whole month rent-free. So, the US is even more expensive than I've described when you're also paying for housing on top of the crazy costs for everything else. Crazy!
Ur a foreigner living and enjoying a great life. Your average Thai life is working, commuting and grinding their lives. The whole “keeping with the jones”, I live at Prom Pong. Come visit Emauartiet, Emporium and soon Emsphere. Most Thais complain they would never be able to afford a life on living their salary of average 500 USA dollars. I think since your Korean American you should try living in Seoul. I lived thrrr for seven years. Waking up at 6 to go to work and coming back home at. I’d ugh after 2.5 hours of commuting. I always find that when in Sathorn or asok at some bars or hotel lounges and I meet up with expats they always say they love their quality of life in BKK but they live in a bubble far off from average Thais. You can see the 1% Thais in their Ferrari at IconSiam buying their new Gucci bag but they are not like SomChai on the street taking a red fan bus for one hour to work to make 12,000 baht and only having two days off a month.
@@casadechris923 That's because they're not practicing location arbitrage, which is the point. The people you mention can do the same exact location arbitrage scenario if they put their mind to it. Or they can stay put and complain about their circumstances. The OP could have stayed in NYC and overpaid and complained about it too. The point is he didn't. He made changes that allow him to live like a king at low cost through location arbitrage.
@@casadechris923 I used to do the daily grind commuting to work and back home. I also worked in a warzone for several years working 12+ hours a day seven days a week for three months at a time before I got two weeks off and then I returned to do it again for three more months. Not a fun situation and I know many people complained but that did not change anything complaining. One has to decide to make a change in life which isn’t always optimal because most of us that go to Thailand or Bali, etc. are most likely far away from their family and definitely living in a different culture, so we have to make a lot of changes and adapt. Seoul S. Korea is probably similar to living in the US and the OP of the video was making a life change and not wanting to do the same thing in another location. Thailand just happened to be one of several places that is an ideal and beautiful place to live in the US and there are different options for different life choices.
Thailand saved me too, after losing my wife to Cancer at a young age, i started again in Thailand. I felt so welcomed & felt alive again. Thank you Thailand
I did exactly the same - very successful and financially secure, but unfulfilled. Thailand has provided a much better life on all levels. Congrats of the decision.
US claims to be law abiding, but in fact it is full of lawlessness and or skewed for the rich and the 1%. The overall climate is getting worse every year.
i dont understand you guys... i have money to survive but not enough to retired. and im very active and enjoy life with what i have.. imagine if i am rich..
@@josephsaeteurn9158 You will need some reasonable money to "retire", although I have not retired. I own several businesses in Thailand and have some side interests that make money - but the cost of living make it much more affordable to live here...and enjoy a very active life here. It all starts with an exit plan...you can make it happen.
In 2021 I made the same decision! However, I moved to Bali instead of Thailand. I am also from the south and totally resonated with your video. I used to work so hard to achieve my goals in the US and, after I did, I felt totally lost. Moving to Southeast Asia saved my life ❤ Sometimes it‘s hard to explain to people why but I will start showing them this video from now on when they ask lol THANK YOU!
Awesome video. Professional, very informative and inspiring. I am an American living in Kyoto, Japan for the last 30 years and find my quality of life vastly superior to any thing I could expect back in the states. I now live in a spacious house in a great area for a mere 400 US dollars. Fantastic health care, no crime to speak of and most remarkably no increase in rent in more than 20 years. Unreal.
Sounds great. I always thought Kyoto could be a nice place to live. I lived in Gifu for 4 years and liked it a lot. That is, I loved living in Japan but not so much working there. Since then I’ve lived in Singapore, China and now Malaysia.
wow hello neighbour. Living in Otsu now. Life is great here eh? I don't get the foreigners who are salty living in Japan when things aren't overly inflated like in the west. I think they can't get over the fact that Japanese actually isn't so expensive as what they've been brainwashed to believe. Maybe 20-30 years ago but definitely not now.
Left the Netherlands for Bangkok 22 years ago. Never looked back. And the Netherlands is a fairly nice place to live compared to the US. Although in the last two decades it's becoming more and more like the US and has the same problems you mentioned her in this video.
I am also a korean american from los angeles, and like u, i got rid of everything packed a suitcase and a bagpack and booked a 1 way to bangkok in January 2023. Stayed for a month and didn't like the traffic and smog (being from LA). Now i live in pattaya, have a pretty chill life, close to the beach, and am happier than ever(there are still stresses). Glad to see that there are others striving for the same lifestyle.
@@503zzachSabaideeeee! The lifestyle is nicer and more affordable in Thailand for him from what I gather. My daughter went to Pattaya and loved it, except for the heat. I’m thinking of retirement p/t in Chiangmai.
@@503zzach cost of living. korea costs a similar amount to LA and starting a new journey mean starting on a budget. also, all the youtube vids like this one manipulating my decisions lol
Well for starters .. without the appropriate visum , u won’t be allowed even to board the plain with a one way ticket . Sod there is no way u just packed your things and went to Thailand.
This sounds amazing and I can totally relate to your thoughts about the US. Please appreciate the warm and welcoming Thai people by giving back to the community. Happy that you found happiness
As a korean-american who just came back to the US after 3 months stay in Bangkok, I couldn't agree more with what you said. My quality of life escalated significantly when I was in Thailand. I miss Thailand so much haha
@@frankom2862 - you're an imbecile! Paul said the things he didn't like about the US, not that he hated the US! There are some things you can hate about your spouse but it doesn't mean you don't love her/her.
@@frankom2862That isn't the point. However, many many millions of Americans would live elsewhere if they could afford/sustain it. USA has become a toxic, dysfunctional and miserable place. I say this as a patriot. Outside of making money, you can hardly find reasons to be here. 100% facts!
@@VENEMPASTOR have you stopped to think 1 minute, to realize that your US passport and the US dollars are the ones that allow those people to afford living abroad. I'm not from USA and I have lived in Asia since 2012, but I hate the bunch of "Americans" that always talk 💩 about your home country but none of them want to quit been American. I never talk bad about my country and my country doesn't give me any advantage abroad, and it has a lot of problems, but I don't go everywhere spreading 💩 and is annoying is hear Americans say how horrible US with their American pensions or their well pay job that they got because they hold an US passport, while drinking a cup of Starbucks coffee 🤷🏽♂️ Do you know how difficult it is to travel, work abroad or get a visa for somebody that is not from US, or West Europe 🤷🏽♂️ Or do you think that every Thai person can live the lifestyle that your U.S. dollars allow you ? Do you think Thai people don't have problems with the government? But it is easy to say everything is great when you don't know anything, in a country where prostitution is so spread, or do you think people in Thailand sell their body because they like it? So why not quit the nationality and the benefits and try it as a local 🤷🏽♂️
i'm from switzerland and feel the same as you. In thailand i feel me the first time in my life free, really free. Everything easy, people no think to much and when you as farang look the pepole same as you, so many goodness and peace come back....now im 50....i think in 5 Years i can cut my life from this materialist and cold life and enjoy the last part of my life in TH.....i wish your happyness will never stop.....
You are very tight about America. I have lived 7 months a year in Bangkok for quite a while and the stress level is so much lower in Thailand. Political situation in USA is worse than ever and I have lost friends because my views might be different. Sitting on the beach in Pattaya as I write this.
Good and hope to continue to enjoy it. The US politic is roten and ALWAYS ATTACK those who are peaceful and non criminal. I HATE THE US CNN and that trans hell call Igna or ingrnd some SUPER IDIOT who is one of the reason to all this mess and hell in the US
Politic division is a thing in Thailand too, and it’s not a minor issue. Thing is it’s kinda easier for non-local to overlook, and I think this is common to any country (many Thai people also think that the US is a better country in term of freeness and political issues, which might or might not be the case). Anyway welcome to Thailand, enjoy your stay and I hope you love our country.
Welcome to Thailand, This country is really beautiful country, I am Thai and now I am living in Sydney, I miss my country so bad and am so grateful that you decide to live in Thailand that is good choice.
Yes! I agreed. I moved to the U.S a while back and the stress level of work and life are extremely high. We have so many Mental health problems and we have to push forward which is making it worse. No quality of life and work for someone's else dream
Thanks for this video, Paul! I’m a Thai American who moved back to Thailand 14 years ago. At that time I thought i was missing out on so much of life in the States and I wasn’t sure if I made the right decision. Now I’m confident I did. And thank God for His wonderful plan for me. I’m happy to be in Thailand now that I’m in my mid thirties 🤩 thanks for your video!
@legallythai - I am also a Thai-American who has lived in the US since the age of two, and I am planning to move to Thailand for my retirement before the age of 60 in about two years. I've made a decision to return to the homeland based on most of what Paul disliked about the US. I love my adopted country and I am grateful for the opportunities it has given me but I feel that the Thai culture and way of life suit me better. I am glad that moving back to Thailand has worked out for you and I hope the same for myself in a few years. I am glad I did not give up my Thai citizenship when I became a US citizen!
That’s great! Hope it works out for you. It was a bit of a difficult transition at first due to cultural differences, etc. but eventually you find your niche. Dual citizenship is great! There’s a lot of advantages to holding on to your Thai citizenship including visa free travel in many countries across Asia, being able to permanently live in Thailand without visa runs, ownership of property, national healthcare, etc.!
@@legallythai - I have a question about using both US and Thai passports when you travel back to the US or any country that requires a visa for your Thai passport but not required for your US passport. Have you ever exited Thailand with your US passport but re-entered Thailand using your Thai passport? I heard dual citizens do this to avoid the 30-day stay restriction in Thailand if they re-enter Thailand with their foreign passports. Thanks!
@@legallythai - Sorry, last question. So, if you're leaving Thailand to travel to the US, which passport do you present to the airlines in Thailand? Just your US passport or both your Thai and US passport? I'm a bit confused about the whole process. In a few years, I will be faced with this process. thanks!
I guess my question to you would be, how do general Thai people feel about the influx of Americans living in Thailand? I have heard that digital nomads and ex-pats may make life harder for the common folks in these countries by making the cost-of-living more expensive such as rent and food. While, you’re able to live comfortably in Bangkok, are the working class being priced out?
Yep this will become an issue if the gov didn't control the population, the local will pay the price. If thai dont have corruption then it'll be fine with control number.
That’s what I’m saying. A lot of what he talked about is how affordable it is compared to US. No shit you’re making American money. I grew up in an area that was gentrified and it definitely caused rifts in the community
I am in bangkok since Jan this year and I can’t agree more with you. My daily life has changed completely from what I did before and I even work less. Gotta go to Europe in dec for like 3 weeks. I will be so glad to come back after that.
Thailand is the best choice for any digital nomads or people with passive income who earn $$ because they can spend less than half of the same quality of living standards in Thailand, plus more fun. As a Thai American I understand your point very well and I am planning my exit to Thailand as well. I started planning to renovate my old family's apartment buildings in Bangkok to more modern, western style. I plan to charge just over $100 usd per unit (they're not in the touristy areas, all near schools). One of Thai's characters is we are helping each other to survive if we can but we provide great services no matter what. I plan on giving back to the country that gives my life. I also loves America but now it's so depressing to see how poor Americans live and tried to survive here.
I love that you’re doing this. I’m Thai-American as well. Just got back from a 3 week trip to Mueng Thai with my parents. We went back to visit family. We spoke about helping some of our relatives by purchasing some housing for them in Thailand, or helping to fix current ones. I am thinking about buying something too. We will see. It’s been 3 days since getting back to California and it feels depressing being back…. I have family in Bangkok, Phuket, Nakhon Phanom, Hat Yai
I feel exactly the same way. I love Australia, but it doesn’t feel like where I belong or want to be. I’m hoping to make the move to Koh Samui, Thailand next year.
@@shotecho since the pandemic living here feels different. Maybe it is us who changed not the country? We also love Australia but will be happy to visit rather than live here. Koh Samui will be a beautiful place to live! We will do a stint living their too. I wish you well on your journey - make it happen!
@@sann5146 my husband will have a LTR visa and I will go on the spouse LTR visa. If we decide to stay after 5-10 years we will go onto the retirement visa. It is difficult to find a good long term visa though. It always has been in Thailand.
You hit the pros and cons spot on bro, I lived in Thailand for about 2 months last year and lived it. The last 3 years I’ve been living in Japan and decided to get out of the military and stay here. Life overseas is so much better, congratulations to you in your discovery and success man, Susu!!! ✊🏼
Thank you for the awesome video, Paul..! I've lived all over the U.S.. Six months ago, I was sick of the crazy politics, but also the insanely high price of rent, food, gas, insurance, and health care, so I took a chance and moved to Pattaya, Thailand. Like you, I brought two bags here, got settled into a super affordable condo, and I haven't looked back. It's the best decision I've ever made. Everything you said in the video resonates with me because it's all absolutely true. I still love so much about the U.S. but Thailand is my happy place. Thanks again for the great video, and I look forward to the next one!
I come in to encourage this channel to grow and make cool and informative content. I AM A NEW resident of Bangkok and i am LOVING IT. living my life each day to the fullest WITHOUT the previous BS and restrictions. If anyone is from the Digital Nomads community globally .. THAILAND (Bangkok) has given LIFE to so many people that wanted good and positive change in their life.
I'm so glad you're enjoying your time here. Bangkok as well as other provinces are very welcoming for tourists and foreigners to travel and live, thanks to our rich culture of compassion and empathy and our sense of community. I hope you make the most of living here as there are lots of things Thailand has to offer❤
As a Thai person who has lived in Bangkok half of my life and just moved to the US ( CA) I want to move back to my home country. My life in Thailand is better than life in the US. I missed my friends, family, street foods, weekend& evening markets, the smiles and kindness of the Thais! I don’t see it here in the US. Medical system in the US is horrible! It takes so long to be able to see a doctor and whatever medical process afterwards (3 weeks -3 months) while it can be done just 2-4 hours in hospitals in Thailand. What you mentioned in the video about the apartment is absolutely right, we pay 3,100$ for 2 bedrooms apt whiles you could spend only 500-700$ in Bangkok for 2 bedrooms apt.
How is it if you don't speak Thai but English and need help for medical, like to see specialists for certain conditions for check ups not an emergency? Or if there is an emergency to communicate? Either way.
@@Sash-dx6gh I’m Thai-American and go back to Thailand often and have had experiences w going to the hospitals and clinics there. A lot of hospitals the staff speak English. You won’t need to worry
I don't know how i came across your channel, but what a wonderful video. I can relate to everything you said because our journey is similar. I am Canadian, and literally, I ran from Canada to save my life. I visited tanzania in October 2021, randomly. I fell in love with the country. I went back to Toronto in November 2021. I returned to tanzania in February 2022 and again in October 2022. On January 12th, 2023, with a one-way ticket, i boarded a flight to tanzania. It is the best decision I have ever made. I will never return to live in Canada permanently.
I agree with absolutely everything you said about the toxic culture here in America. I am a woman and am moving to Thailand in January. Ready to live the dream like you !
Can I ask how you're going to sustain yourself or what you do for living? I really want to make the move from Canada but IDK what I would do for a living.
100%!! I have been watching tons of Thai videos and have decided to leave the US as well. Your video is the realest I have seen yet!! Thank you for putting my thoughts into words!!
I also left New York back in Feb 2020 and moved to Taiwan with my husband. We're enjoying life here as well. Its just easy to live here and much more tone down. I can relate with a lot of things you said.
Thank for sharing Paul. I myself feel the same about the US. I fell in love with Thailand 10 years ago. And visit 2 to 3 times a year. Planning to leave the US for Thailand in the future.
I took a random trip to thailand back in June for those exact same reasons. I stayed for a month.. Im back in the states working now and I cannot wait to go back to Thailand.. man that place is special.
Love it. Left the UK over a year ago and never looked back. Been in Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore & Korea in that time. Every place has been great in its own way but see myself settling between Korea and Thailand in the long run. No brainer compared to living in the UK, for me both countries smash it out of the park in terms of safety, peace, people, food, weather, nightlife and general enjoyment of day to day life.
Hey Paul Lee….I’ve been living in Thailand since 2008 …well, that was when I first came to Thailand. And many of the reasons I came and stayed are exactly what you said. I could identify with your story immediately and appreciate your common sense, your openness and just being level headed…and at a young age, I would add. I’m a new sub for sure. Thanks 😊
Respect bro. I feel the same way about life here in TX and when I say it out loud, people look at me like I'm weird. Nice to know I'm not the only one! It must've taken a lot of courage to make that leap. Congrats on taking the plunge, and I'm glad it's worked out so far.
Great video and agree with everything you said. I’m from the UK and spent 6 months in Bangkok recently. Came back to England and itching to get back to Thailand. My life was so much more interesting there. I’ve applied for an elite visa and I’ll be heading back in November to stay for an initial 5 years!
I’m from Atlanta and I don’t even go to Macon. It’s a hard life there. Glad to see you made it out of depression and substance abuse brother! I saved $390k and in the process of buying a home in Dominican Republic. I’m 37 and I’m retiring lol.
Just picked up your program first time - been following Forest Lee for many months who shares similar mindset as you. The wise person goes to where he or she is treated best ! Southeast Asia is that place - I know NYC very well and sadly it’s best days are over, as well as most of the major US cities.
Very well said Paul! I just found your channel and I have been living in San Francisco ever since I was 8 years old, my husband and I cannot wait to move there in 15 months! Thanks for sharing 😊
Great vid. I am going through the same right now....deep depression. Live in suburbs near NYC. I will be coming to Thailand for 3 months total in January, starting in Bangkok and staying in BKK for atleast 1 month. I train muay thai so it is my dream to train there. I also know massage and want to take Thai massage course. I have a feeling I'm going to fall in love with Thailand and never want to come home. Thank you for your videos, they are really helping me as I figure out how to navigate the city once I get there.
"I have a feeling I'm going to fall in love with Thailand and never want to come home" I can guarantee you that it will happen!! It happens to everyone who comes to visit. You will fall in love with the friendly people, the peaceful calm environment, the food, and the culture. I was in Thailand last April for a whole month and I am returning to Thailand this November for another whole month! Need I say more?
Sawatdee krub Paul, I am a Thai American who left Chicago in 2008 and never looked back. I was in the US my entire life and thought that there could be no place on the planet that could be better to live in. Fortunately, in the past 15+ years since I left, the time that I spent as an international school Chemistry and Math teacher in Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, Myanmar, Germany, China, and Vietnam opened my mind to how much more beautiful life is everywhere else in the world. And in most of these places, the quality of life did indeed far exceed the quality of life that I ever had back in the US for many of the same reasons that you talked about in this video. Thailand has and always will be on the top of my list of the best places to live in the world. Congratulations to you in finding your peace and path in life. It would be nice to be able to meet you someday and pick each other's brains out about our more detailed experiences and life stories in regards to our time in the US and also in Thailand. Currently I am teaching in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, but I do travel back to my home in Chiang Mai, Thailand during my school's holidays. If you haven't seen much of Chiang Mai, perhaps you might change your mind about Bangkok being the best place in Thailand :) To me, Chiang Mai is my most favorite place in Thailand and is the number one place in Thailand that still maintains the true feeling of what it is like to be surrounded in Thai culture and be in the presence of truly kind local Thai people. Bangkok of the 1980s and 1990s was kinda like that then, but has sadly become just another over priced, commercialized, glitzy modern megacity like Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong, etc... FYI Bangkok's got nothing on the Thai food in Chiang Mai nor the natural landscapes and breathtaking views of Chiang Mai. When Bangkok does have fantastic Thai food, it usually costs and arm and a leg when compared to Chiang Mai''s Thai food options. Hua Hin down south is a close second for me too. Anyway, best of luck to you in The Land of Smiles and I hope to chat with you in person online and in person someday. Perhaps we can do an online zoom session for our RUclips channels in an interview style format. We could title it "Why two Asian Americans got a one way ticket the hell out of America". By the way, your dog is super adorable!!! Cheers and take care - Mek
When you said 3 years I was like hell yea, God bless on your journey and I'm truly happy you found your peace. I have lived in a few asian countries and have also felt the difference in not just financially but peace of mind and happiness not found in the US. Working on a stable wfh income and I should be out of here in 5 months. Thank you for sharing your story Mr. Lee.
I've been in Bangkok on and off for 10 years and it changed me in a good way too. Interesting story and you are right about learning Thai. I hear you about America and how people spend money and disagree about most things. If you want to trade stories or get a coffee, I'm around living downtown with my gf. I'm up for meeting anyone new, hearing new stories or giving any advice on Thailand.. Keep your channel going
I am older and well-traveled in Asia, and I have a lot of the same thoughts lately. Lift in America has become very inorganic (or should I say even more inorganic) lately and I really miss the sense of enjoying life (nature food and whatnot) when I lived and worked in Asia, as hard as the work was. The cultural details also left me wanting more from my current life filled with insurance policies and tax preparations. Anyhow, good for you young fellow. Look for me when I retire to some beachside bungalow in Koh Sumai in hopefully the not-too-distant future :)
Meanwhile, thousands of Crazy Rich Asian line up with their 100 dollars and a form to play the lottery at a US embassy, hoping to win the right to see Mickey Mouse or eat bagel in New York.
just a stranger but really good on you for realizing you had a problem and left new york to deal with your dopamine issue. glad you love thailand and welcome!
I'm in Alabang Manila. Just about 30 days in. You gentlemen are telling the facts. Quality of life can't be compared. The lack of crime us absolutely shocking.
@@j2174 they focus on family. You don't see people with there ass hanging out of thier pants, you don't see wild crazy crime on the news every single day. Your US dollar is 1 to 56 php. I say hello and get a hello back without the risk of moral combat. They aren't being over ran by economic migrates like in America. The culture here isn't offended by everything. I can keep on and on and on
@@itsanewday5565 Isn’t Alabang one of the, if not the most developed and modern part of Manila? It has tons of skyscrapers, shopping malls, transport etc. it’s not representative. It’s because you have money.
Dope channel popped up on my timeline. Been living in Korea for 20 years been traveling Philippines a lot just recently started visiting Thailand and love it. Dope video 🔥
Been in Bangkok for 2 weeks - from California and I don’t want to go back! Such a better quality of life here. So much cheaper and the people are incredibly nice
im here since 3 weeks now, doing dropshipping for 3 yrs and found good success earlier this year. Cant describe how life is so much better in bkk than back in Germany and how good I feel here. Gonna leave Germany completely in couple of months to live here most of the year.
@@JustinVoinea a friend of mine has the same path and we are currently together here. He found a solid way to get long term visa by beeing on paper in a university here. Cost him like 1.8K, will probably do it also that way, but there are more options which are viable, need to do some research
@@JustinVoinea - Student Visa (language or Muay Thai) or the Elite Visa 5 year for approximately $17K. No age restriction. I heard it may change soon but do your research. Google it!
I randomly came up on your channel. As a fellow American and New Yorker I definitely understand how one can feel turned off with crime, expense and human indifference. I have also been considering moving abroad somewhere.
Very nice commentary - thanks for sharing. I agree with what you said about the states, but I think if you were a Thai living in Thailand you’d find they have some of the same issues you left behind, like politics and consumerism. However, as an expat you are able to opt out of those issues. That’s what I’ve done in my 25 years living in Asia and frankly what I like so much about living away. Anyway, as I mentioned, nice commentary.
This is exactly whats happening here in U.S. right now. I want to leave too as well but I need to get my finances in order too. Need to figure out a way to live in Thailand long term because I heard VISA runs are getting strict with custom immigration at the Airports.
Hello Paul, I just came across your channel and I must tell you being from USA I feel and know what you are saying I too bought a random ticket to Thailand and I also noticed the difference to make it short I’ve gone twice in three months just came back in August and looking forward to go back in October so I just want to say thank you for letting others know there is a lot more than keeping up with the joneses
Wow, I randomly clicked on this video because I thought I could relate, but I didn't think I'd relate THIS much. I traveled when I was 18 to vietnam for a month and absolutely loved it. I have had similar goals about becoming rich and how I realized it wasn't fulfilling along with a severe c*caine addiction I'm working on getting sober from. My goal is to move to southeast asia and move away from the toxic US lifestyle I've been living. I love this video! I wish you the best and I'm glad you were able to get away from that and move to a beautiful place.
I really appreciated your story! Move is always good. When you feel comfortable, this is very scary in terms of changes because it makes you stay in the same place. Changes are the best way to find out what you want in your life.
I’m Thai who immigrated into the U.S. 24 years ago and is near retiring. Of course, I want to be back to my home country but SSI and Medicare keep me here. So I’m the other way around.
AMEN! I'm 55 and still need to work another 10 years here in the US (I don't have a remote job), but fell in love with Thailand when I visited in 2019. I'm going to explore retiring there for all the reasons you mentioned. You are very blessed to be so young and aware. So blessed to have the financial freedom to do what you are doing. xo
Thailand is like an America of Southeast Asia. The only difference is most people aint so segregated. Most people try to blend in. Though, the majority of people are still Asians, just different types of Asians. So its much easier for Asian people who already share similar cultures to blend in perfectly.
I applaud you for the courage to make this move for your self! I relate to all your points about America. I moved from Illinois to Hawaii (Kauai) to live a simpler life. It is more simple in the fact that there aren’t a lot of choices in the consumer options. However it is quite pricey to live on these islands. I speak 2 languages however learning another one seems daunting to me at 57 years young. Would love to hear more about how you make it all work there. As in the legality of being an expat there. Mahalo and Aloha 🌺
I was in Thailand two months ago and I really want pickup and move there. All I really have is my condo to sell and the money I have been saving the past few years. All these points hit right at home and after meeting people in Thailand I really feel like I will find a more traditional lady there. Just curious are you like retired in Thailand, still doing business in America or have a Thai job now? I am currently working as a Engineering Supervisor but been looking for similar jobs there, but I am wondering if I even need to be making such a significantly higher wage than I need to.
I lived in Bangkok in the early 90s and have been back to visit a number of times. Your video is SPOT ON. Especially at about 5:47 and following, I was like, “Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!” You articulated so succinctly many of my same thoughts. All the best to you as you continue your journey!
It's always amazing how similar people are even when many things are different. NYC would be on my list of the 5 Worst Cities in the US. At the same time, traveling to other parts of the world opens your eyes. I have lived and traveled in about 15 different countries so far, and I guess I am settling down now, because my wife has a Venezuelan passport so there are not as many open doors. I encourage EVERYONE to visit a different country from where you were born. The big, wide world is wonderful!
Great Story! A lot of people feel the same way. Glad you found what you are looking for at such a young age! Time is the most precious commodity we have. How do you make money now?
Great video!!! I left the US for Hong Kong in 2012 and still have no desire to return. So many Americans feel like their stuck, but if they would only travel they would realize there's other, much better ways to live! All the best to you brother!!!
Great video. After moving back and forth between the US and Thailand for the past four years (I did 14 day quarantine too, lol) I moved back to Bangkok a month ago for the last time. The US is not a place I want to be in anymore for all the reasons you mentioned. This is home, and I knew that from the first moment I walked around Bangkok four years ago.
Great video. I am originally from NYC as well. I left NYC for many of the same reasons as you. Now i spend 80% time in Asia and 20% of time in South Florida. Love Thailand Bangkok. Best city of South East Asia for sure. I'll be working out in the outdoor workout area of Lumpini Park this week for sure.
The fact that you were able to realize what matters in life and subsequently make the needed changes while relatively young is incredible. Completely changing your life by relocating to a foriegn country doesn't work out for everyone. I think the key is knowing yourself very well. Congrats and carry on!👍👍
5:00 mate, you've described my reasons why I prefer Thailand over my home country. Exactly same story except I'm not an enterpreneur yet and have worked in Thailand. And it's much harder to get a job in Thailand because I have to explain the exact reasons you have stated why I would accept a lower salary than the salary in my first world home country which is also why i'm trying to build my own wealth.
Thanks for sharing @PaulLee. I noticed on Quora a lot of Westerners complaining though that staying there is difficult because of the bureaucracy or "shake downs" by officials. I also notice that mostly men love living there. Not a lot of women. Can you address those topics? I visited Thailand several years ago, and I loved it. I found the people kind and welcoming. But I never considered it as a place to relocate, most likely at that time because I didn't want to be so far from home.
Bro I grew up in a small town in Georgia too (near Macon). Now, I'm in Thailand, and considering making it a second base. More than considering now, trying to figure out how to make multiple yearly trips. Personally, Seattle is home for me and I love it, but happy for you. I feel your pain with the violence against Asian Americans, as a black person, I hate to see that, and wish people could look past the physical characteristics of a person. The US is just.. crazy... Anyway, peace to you!
I spent 4 weeks in Thailand (with a 3 day trip to Indonesia). I did not want to leave and I plan to retire there. BTW, I contracted pneumonia in my right lung and was hospitalized for 7 days. It was the BEST medical care I ever had. No hospital in the US or Canada can compare. English was not an issue and the doctors and nurses (I believe) saved my life. I look forward to calling Thailand “Home.”
I feel ya mate.. grew up in London, even from a middle class family, good education but was absolutely miserable... I went to HK for the first time in 1998 and after visiting a few other places in the region I fell in love with living in Asia immediately... I had opportunities that I could never even imagine whilst living back in UK, accomplished things I had never even dreamed of then due to visas was forced to leave and go back to UK to absolute misery and near suicidal depression even living in a nice house in a rich area.. money does NOT equal happiness.. it pays bills.. which is not the same thing.. life in the west is so competitive and about impressing others, materialism and media bombardment of bullshit trying to stress you out at every opportunity... 'you should do this, you should be like that'... its just bullshit.. in Asia people just leave you alone and respect your choices and freedom to be yourself... totally agree with you mate... ASIA is by far a better place to live... Thailand is the last on my list to visit becuase I know once I get there I will never want to leave so am just clearing up things here so when I do get there I will never have to come back!! UK and USA are great in their own way but they are also highly toxic places to live! almost by design??!! best of luck to ya out there man.. maybe bump into ya down the road... peace and respect!
I went to Thailand for 3 weeks right before the pandemic hit. What a lovely country and I can certainly see myself living there. Before that, I've been to India and Vietnam. Don't recommend India, but Vietnam is definitely on the list. Next on my list are Malaysia, China, Indonesia, and the Philippines. I want to visit all of them before I decide which country will be home base when I retire. I love the US and there are a ton of places I haven't been to, but as Paul says, there are just too many "issues" for me to want to stay. Mainly money, because there's no way I can retire on my current income, but definitely doable in SEA.
same as I feel about UK.. I Love my country but its getting worse and worse with no improvement in sight and as I'm fast approaching 50 I just think there has to be better way to spend the last couple decades of my life.. @@calitaco
Great video. I'm retired and been living in Jomtien Pattaya Thailand for about 8 months. I'm practicing minimalizm which is like something you mentioned. I has to do with NOT buy stuff you don't need. It makes you enjoy life a lot more and unlike America, here in Thailand there is no such thing as keeping up with the Joneses!
What made you pick Pattaya over Bangkok or Chiang Mai? If you have been to those other places in Thailand, what were the deciding factors to pick Pattaya?
I chose Jomtien Beach in Pattaya because its very reasonable as far as my finances are concerned I also really love the tranquility of Jomtien. It gives me a small town vibe
Good video Paul, thanks for sharing valuable experience. Question, how did you stay there for so long? I hear that Thai resident visa options for someone your age suck, and that it's far better to move to Philippines, would love to learn more.
Proud of your courage to move there and finding a gf in the process, man that’s a bonus! I feel the same way you feel, being asian in America you really feel that polarization between certain groups and the negativity it brings. However, violence and corruption can happen anywhere in the world. Be careful out there.
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I am American and I recently returned to the US after two total years living in Thailand and many of the things mentioned in the US I was aware of. So glad to return to Thailand after a few weeks of visiting family and a few friends. I finished selling what I had stored at my son’s home and my life is more chill here in Thailand.
Same scenario for me, except that I live in Bali, Indonesia. Haven't been to Thailand yet, but I will visit eventually. Love Bali though. A big eye opener for me was when I went home to NY a year ago to visit family for a month. First morning there, my brother and I went to a deli for an egg sandwich breakfast and coffee, for a grand total of $12.87. I was like, "are you f'ing kidding me." I can eat well 3 meals a day for 3 days on $12.87 here in Bali, and still have some change left over! The money I spent in one month in the US would sustain me at a higher standard here in Bali for a whole year, and I say that after staying with family and friends for that whole month rent-free. So, the US is even more expensive than I've described when you're also paying for housing on top of the crazy costs for everything else. Crazy!
Ur a foreigner living and enjoying a great life. Your average Thai life is working, commuting and grinding their lives. The whole “keeping with the jones”, I live at Prom Pong. Come visit Emauartiet, Emporium and soon Emsphere. Most Thais complain they would never be able to afford a life on living their salary of average 500 USA dollars. I think since your Korean American you should try living in Seoul. I lived thrrr for seven years. Waking up at 6 to go to work and coming back home at. I’d ugh after 2.5 hours of commuting. I always find that when in Sathorn or asok at some bars or hotel lounges and I meet up with expats they always say they love their quality of life in BKK but they live in a bubble far off from average Thais. You can see the 1% Thais in their Ferrari at IconSiam buying their new Gucci bag but they are not like SomChai on the street taking a red fan bus for one hour to work to make 12,000 baht and only having two days off a month.
@@casadechris923 That's because they're not practicing location arbitrage, which is the point. The people you mention can do the same exact location arbitrage scenario if they put their mind to it. Or they can stay put and complain about their circumstances. The OP could have stayed in NYC and overpaid and complained about it too. The point is he didn't. He made changes that allow him to live like a king at low cost through location arbitrage.
@@casadechris923 I used to do the daily grind commuting to work and back home. I also worked in a warzone for several years working 12+ hours a day seven days a week for three months at a time before I got two weeks off and then I returned to do it again for three more months. Not a fun situation and I know many people complained but that did not change anything complaining. One has to decide to make a change in life which isn’t always optimal because most of us that go to Thailand or Bali, etc. are most likely far away from their family and definitely living in a different culture, so we have to make a lot of changes and adapt. Seoul S. Korea is probably similar to living in the US and the OP of the video was making a life change and not wanting to do the same thing in another location. Thailand just happened to be one of several places that is an ideal and beautiful place to live in the US and there are different options for different life choices.
Can you tell me what do we have to do for living permanently in Thailand ? Please.
Thailand saved me too, after losing my wife to Cancer at a young age, i started again in Thailand.
I felt so welcomed & felt alive again.
Thank you Thailand
Sorry for you loss and you did the right thing. Life is short do what is best for you!
Have not heard anything bad about Thailand and its culture.
Currently in Thailand, I've lost weight in my face has slimmed down, it's only been four months. So far so good.
This guy is SUPER accurate! I never been to Thailand but everything he said about the USA is right on point! Thank you for this video!
I did exactly the same - very successful and financially secure, but unfulfilled. Thailand has provided a much better life on all levels. Congrats of the decision.
Glad to hear it!
On what levels?
US claims to be law abiding, but in fact it is full of lawlessness and or skewed for the rich and the 1%. The overall climate is getting worse every year.
i dont understand you guys... i have money to survive but not enough to retired. and im very active and enjoy life with what i have.. imagine if i am rich..
@@josephsaeteurn9158 You will need some reasonable money to "retire", although I have not retired. I own several businesses in Thailand and have some side interests that make money - but the cost of living make it much more affordable to live here...and enjoy a very active life here. It all starts with an exit plan...you can make it happen.
In 2021 I made the same decision! However, I moved to Bali instead of Thailand. I am also from the south and totally resonated with your video. I used to work so hard to achieve my goals in the US and, after I did, I felt totally lost. Moving to Southeast Asia saved my life ❤ Sometimes it‘s hard to explain to people why but I will start showing them this video from now on when they ask lol THANK YOU!
Awesome video. Professional, very informative and inspiring. I am an American living in Kyoto, Japan for the last 30 years and find my quality of life vastly superior to any thing I could expect back in the states. I now live in a spacious house in a great area for a mere 400 US dollars. Fantastic health care, no crime to speak of and most remarkably no increase in rent in more than 20 years. Unreal.
Thank you! Wow, 30 years. Sounds amazing
Sounds great. I always thought Kyoto could be a nice place to live. I lived in Gifu for 4 years and liked it a lot. That is, I loved living in Japan but not so much working there. Since then I’ve lived in Singapore, China and now Malaysia.
@@cber5077Japan is great for living. It's bad for working
wow hello neighbour. Living in Otsu now. Life is great here eh? I don't get the foreigners who are salty living in Japan when things aren't overly inflated like in the west. I think they can't get over the fact that Japanese actually isn't so expensive as what they've been brainwashed to believe. Maybe 20-30 years ago but definitely not now.
@@cber5077 which is your favorite?
Left the Netherlands for Bangkok 22 years ago. Never looked back. And the Netherlands is a fairly nice place to live compared to the US. Although in the last two decades it's becoming more and more like the US and has the same problems you mentioned her in this video.
I am also a korean american from los angeles, and like u, i got rid of everything packed a suitcase and a bagpack and booked a 1 way to bangkok in January 2023. Stayed for a month and didn't like the traffic and smog (being from LA). Now i live in pattaya, have a pretty chill life, close to the beach, and am happier than ever(there are still stresses). Glad to see that there are others striving for the same lifestyle.
Awesome to hear that man, much better out here in thailand
@@503zzachSabaideeeee! The lifestyle is nicer and more affordable in Thailand for him from what I gather. My daughter went to Pattaya and loved it, except for the heat. I’m thinking of retirement p/t in Chiangmai.
@@503zzach cost of living. korea costs a similar amount to LA and starting a new journey mean starting on a budget. also, all the youtube vids like this one manipulating my decisions lol
Well for starters .. without the appropriate visum , u won’t be allowed even to board the plain with a one way ticket . Sod there is no way u just packed your things and went to Thailand.
How you make money tho?
This sounds amazing and I can totally relate to your thoughts about the US. Please appreciate the warm and welcoming Thai people by giving back to the community. Happy that you found happiness
As a korean-american who just came back to the US after 3 months stay in Bangkok, I couldn't agree more with what you said. My quality of life escalated significantly when I was in Thailand. I miss Thailand so much haha
haha that's what everyone goes through when visiting here and going back to their country.
Why don't you quit your U.S. passport, if you hate U.S. that much? 🤷🏽♂️
@@frankom2862 - you're an imbecile! Paul said the things he didn't like about the US, not that he hated the US! There are some things you can hate about your spouse but it doesn't mean you don't love her/her.
@@frankom2862That isn't the point.
However, many many millions of Americans would live elsewhere if they could afford/sustain it.
USA has become a toxic, dysfunctional and miserable place. I say this as a patriot.
Outside of making money, you can hardly find reasons to be here. 100% facts!
@@VENEMPASTOR have you stopped to think 1 minute, to realize that your US passport and the US dollars are the ones that allow those people to afford living abroad.
I'm not from USA and I have lived in Asia since 2012, but I hate the bunch of "Americans" that always talk 💩 about your home country but none of them want to quit been American. I never talk bad about my country and my country doesn't give me any advantage abroad, and it has a lot of problems, but I don't go everywhere spreading 💩 and is annoying is hear Americans say how horrible US with their American pensions or their well pay job that they got because they hold an US passport, while drinking a cup of Starbucks coffee 🤷🏽♂️
Do you know how difficult it is to travel, work abroad or get a visa for somebody that is not from US, or West Europe 🤷🏽♂️
Or do you think that every Thai person can live the lifestyle that your U.S. dollars allow you ? Do you think Thai people don't have problems with the government? But it is easy to say everything is great when you don't know anything, in a country where prostitution is so spread, or do you think people in Thailand sell their body because they like it?
So why not quit the nationality and the benefits and try it as a local 🤷🏽♂️
i'm from switzerland and feel the same as you. In thailand i feel me the first time in my life free, really free. Everything easy, people no think to much and when you as farang look the pepole same as you, so many goodness and peace come back....now im 50....i think in 5 Years i can cut my life from this materialist and cold life and enjoy the last part of my life in TH.....i wish your happyness will never stop.....
You are very tight about America. I have lived 7 months a year in Bangkok for quite a while and the stress level is so much lower in Thailand. Political situation in USA is worse than ever and I have lost friends because my views might be different. Sitting on the beach in Pattaya as I write this.
liberal state example CA NYT DC WA criminals rob car hijack beat up people, not punishment now
You had terrible friends then if they would throw away a friendship over political views
Good and hope to continue to enjoy it. The US politic is roten and ALWAYS ATTACK those who are peaceful and non criminal.
I HATE THE US CNN and that trans hell call Igna or ingrnd some SUPER IDIOT who is one of the reason to all this mess and hell in the US
Politic division is a thing in Thailand too, and it’s not a minor issue. Thing is it’s kinda easier for non-local to overlook, and I think this is common to any country (many Thai people also think that the US is a better country in term of freeness and political issues, which might or might not be the case). Anyway welcome to Thailand, enjoy your stay and I hope you love our country.
Welcome to Thailand, This country is really beautiful country, I am Thai and now I am living in Sydney, I miss my country so bad and am so grateful that you decide to live in Thailand that is good choice.
thank you!
If it’s such a good choice, why don’t you live there?
Yes! I agreed. I moved to the U.S a while back and the stress level of work and life are extremely high. We have so many Mental health problems and we have to push forward which is making it worse. No quality of life and work for someone's else dream
Thanks for this video, Paul! I’m a Thai American who moved back to Thailand 14 years ago. At that time I thought i was missing out on so much of life in the States and I wasn’t sure if I made the right decision. Now I’m confident I did. And thank God for His wonderful plan for me. I’m happy to be in Thailand now that I’m in my mid thirties 🤩 thanks for your video!
@legallythai - I am also a Thai-American who has lived in the US since the age of two, and I am planning to move to Thailand for my retirement before the age of 60 in about two years. I've made a decision to return to the homeland based on most of what Paul disliked about the US. I love my adopted country and I am grateful for the opportunities it has given me but I feel that the Thai culture and way of life suit me better. I am glad that moving back to Thailand has worked out for you and I hope the same for myself in a few years. I am glad I did not give up my Thai citizenship when I became a US citizen!
That’s great! Hope it works out for you. It was a bit of a difficult transition at first due to cultural differences, etc. but eventually you find your niche. Dual citizenship is great! There’s a lot of advantages to holding on to your Thai citizenship including visa free travel in many countries across Asia, being able to permanently live in Thailand without visa runs, ownership of property, national healthcare, etc.!
@@legallythai - I have a question about using both US and Thai passports when you travel back to the US or any country that requires a visa for your Thai passport but not required for your US passport. Have you ever exited Thailand with your US passport but re-entered Thailand using your Thai passport? I heard dual citizens do this to avoid the 30-day stay restriction in Thailand if they re-enter Thailand with their foreign passports. Thanks!
Yes usually I enter the U.S. or other countries where U.S. passport is visa free with my U.S. passport and enter Thailand with my Thai passport.
@@legallythai - Sorry, last question. So, if you're leaving Thailand to travel to the US, which passport do you present to the airlines in Thailand? Just your US passport or both your Thai and US passport? I'm a bit confused about the whole process. In a few years, I will be faced with this process. thanks!
I guess my question to you would be, how do general Thai people feel about the influx of Americans living in Thailand? I have heard that digital nomads and ex-pats may make life harder for the common folks in these countries by making the cost-of-living more expensive such as rent and food. While, you’re able to live comfortably in Bangkok, are the working class being priced out?
Yep this will become an issue if the gov didn't control the population, the local will pay the price. If thai dont have corruption then it'll be fine with control number.
That’s what I’m saying. A lot of what he talked about is how affordable it is compared to US. No shit you’re making American money. I grew up in an area that was gentrified and it definitely caused rifts in the community
I spent a month in Thailand for vacation and absolutely loved it! My preferred city is Chiang Mai but Bangkok is awesome too.
I am in bangkok since Jan this year and I can’t agree more with you. My daily life has changed completely from what I did before and I even work less. Gotta go to Europe in dec for like 3 weeks. I will be so glad to come back after that.
Thailand is the best choice for any digital nomads or people with passive income who earn $$ because they can spend less than half of the same quality of living standards in Thailand, plus more fun.
As a Thai American I understand your point very well and I am planning my exit to Thailand as well.
I started planning to renovate my old family's apartment buildings in Bangkok to more modern, western style. I plan to charge just over $100 usd per unit (they're not in the touristy areas, all near schools).
One of Thai's characters is we are helping each other to survive if we can but we provide great services no matter what. I plan on giving back to the country that gives my life. I also loves America but now it's so depressing to see how poor Americans live and tried to survive here.
I love that you’re doing this. I’m Thai-American as well. Just got back from a 3 week trip to Mueng Thai with my parents. We went back to visit family. We spoke about helping some of our relatives by purchasing some housing for them in Thailand, or helping to fix current ones. I am thinking about buying something too. We will see. It’s been 3 days since getting back to California and it feels depressing being back…. I have family in Bangkok, Phuket, Nakhon Phanom, Hat Yai
This video makes me want to move to Thailand right now haha
You should bro, I’ll show you around 💯haha
@@iPaulLeehe has no money n can't qualify for long term visa
best way to move to Thailand is to move to Thailand! :)
@@gaberoyalll they have no money .. u can't just arrive n stay... thailand do not want poor people
@@CertifiedCruellaYour youtube comment history shows that you spread hate speech towards Thailand over and over!!
Everything you have said in this video resonates.
We live in Australia and it doesn’t feel comfortable anymore.
Can’t wait to move to Bangkok in 2025!
Good luck on your journey!
I feel exactly the same way. I love Australia, but it doesn’t feel like where I belong or want to be. I’m hoping to make the move to Koh Samui, Thailand next year.
@@shotecho since the pandemic living here feels different. Maybe it is us who changed not the country? We also love Australia but will be happy to visit rather than live here.
Koh Samui will be a beautiful place to live! We will do a stint living their too. I wish you well on your journey - make it happen!
Omg this thread. How did (or how are) all of you able to get long-term stay permits in Thailand ????????????
@@sann5146 my husband will have a LTR visa and I will go on the spouse LTR visa. If we decide to stay after 5-10 years we will go onto the retirement visa. It is difficult to find a good long term visa though. It always has been in Thailand.
You hit the pros and cons spot on bro, I lived in Thailand for about 2 months last year and lived it. The last 3 years I’ve been living in Japan and decided to get out of the military and stay here. Life overseas is so much better, congratulations to you in your discovery and success man, Susu!!! ✊🏼
Thank you for the awesome video, Paul..! I've lived all over the U.S.. Six months ago, I was sick of the crazy politics, but also the insanely high price of rent, food, gas, insurance, and health care, so I took a chance and moved to Pattaya, Thailand. Like you, I brought two bags here, got settled into a super affordable condo, and I haven't looked back. It's the best decision I've ever made. Everything you said in the video resonates with me because it's all absolutely true. I still love so much about the U.S. but Thailand is my happy place. Thanks again for the great video, and I look forward to the next one!
I come in to encourage this channel to grow and make cool and informative content. I AM A NEW resident of Bangkok and i am LOVING IT. living my life each day to the fullest WITHOUT the previous BS and restrictions. If anyone is from the Digital Nomads community globally .. THAILAND (Bangkok) has given LIFE to so many people that wanted good and positive change in their life.
Exactly!’
I'm so glad you're enjoying your time here. Bangkok as well as other provinces are very welcoming for tourists and foreigners to travel and live, thanks to our rich culture of compassion and empathy and our sense of community. I hope you make the most of living here as there are lots of things Thailand has to offer❤
As a Thai person who has lived in Bangkok half of my life and just moved to the US ( CA) I want to move back to my home country. My life in Thailand is better than life in the US. I missed my friends, family, street foods, weekend& evening markets, the smiles and kindness of the Thais! I don’t see it here in the US. Medical system in the US is horrible! It takes so long to be able to see a doctor and whatever medical process afterwards (3 weeks -3 months) while it can be done just 2-4 hours in hospitals in Thailand. What you mentioned in the video about the apartment is absolutely right, we pay 3,100$ for 2 bedrooms apt whiles you could spend only 500-700$ in Bangkok for 2 bedrooms apt.
@@markob17 oh I want to come back to Thailand badly. It is just not the right time yet. But hopefully soon… within 5 years! 😊
Usa is a trash country, run away asap..
How is it if you don't speak Thai but English and need help for medical, like to see specialists for certain conditions for check ups not an emergency? Or if there is an emergency to communicate? Either way.
Your comment makes me cry 😢
@@Sash-dx6gh I’m Thai-American and go back to Thailand often and have had experiences w going to the hospitals and clinics there. A lot of hospitals the staff speak English. You won’t need to worry
💯 OnPoint 👑 I can't even fathom moving back to America 🇺🇸 I've lived here in Thailand 🇹🇭 for 6yrs the absolute best decision! Enjoy Paul!
I don't know how i came across your channel, but what a wonderful video. I can relate to everything you said because our journey is similar.
I am Canadian, and literally, I ran from Canada to save my life. I visited tanzania in October 2021, randomly. I fell in love with the country. I went back to Toronto in November 2021. I returned to tanzania in February 2022 and again in October 2022.
On January 12th, 2023, with a one-way ticket, i boarded a flight to tanzania. It is the best decision I have ever made. I will never return to live in Canada permanently.
I agree with absolutely everything you said about the toxic culture here in America. I am a woman and am moving to Thailand in January. Ready to live the dream like you !
Can I ask how you're going to sustain yourself or what you do for living? I really want to make the move from Canada but IDK what I would do for a living.
100%!! I have been watching tons of Thai videos and have decided to leave the US as well. Your video is the realest I have seen yet!! Thank you for putting my thoughts into words!!
I also left New York back in Feb 2020 and moved to Taiwan with my husband. We're enjoying life here as well. Its just easy to live here and much more tone down. I can relate with a lot of things you said.
Thank for sharing Paul. I myself feel the same about the US. I fell in love with Thailand 10 years ago. And visit 2 to 3 times a year. Planning to leave the US for Thailand in the future.
I took a random trip to thailand back in June for those exact same reasons. I stayed for a month.. Im back in the states working now and I cannot wait to go back to Thailand.. man that place is special.
Thank you for your kindest words. 🙏🙏🇹🇭🇹🇭
Love it. Left the UK over a year ago and never looked back. Been in Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore & Korea in that time. Every place has been great in its own way but see myself settling between Korea and Thailand in the long run. No brainer compared to living in the UK, for me both countries smash it out of the park in terms of safety, peace, people, food, weather, nightlife and general enjoyment of day to day life.
how about indonesia
@@vive928 I haven't been yet but heard some good things from friends who live there. It sounds like it has similar advantages. Hope to visit some day
I love your channel. New subscriber here. I left usa 2 years ago and moved to Colombia. Best thing ever. Next year I move to Thailand 🇹🇭 super excited
Hey Paul Lee….I’ve been living in Thailand since 2008 …well, that was when I first came to Thailand. And many of the reasons I came and stayed are exactly what you said. I could identify with your story immediately and appreciate your common sense, your openness and just being level headed…and at a young age, I would add. I’m a new sub for sure. Thanks 😊
Thanks man!
Did you retire?
Respect bro. I feel the same way about life here in TX and when I say it out loud, people look at me like I'm weird. Nice to know I'm not the only one! It must've taken a lot of courage to make that leap. Congrats on taking the plunge, and I'm glad it's worked out so far.
Great video and agree with everything you said. I’m from the UK and spent 6 months in Bangkok recently. Came back to England and itching to get back to Thailand. My life was so much more interesting there. I’ve applied for an elite visa and I’ll be heading back in November to stay for an initial 5 years!
very nice welcome to Loykrathong and Yipeng festival in ChiangMai 🎉🎉🎉 on Nov
I’m from Atlanta and I don’t even go to Macon. It’s a hard life there. Glad to see you made it out of depression and substance abuse brother! I saved $390k and in the process of buying a home in Dominican Republic. I’m 37 and I’m retiring lol.
damn, that's a lot saved.
Just picked up your program first time - been following Forest Lee for many months who shares similar mindset as you. The wise person goes to where he or she is treated best ! Southeast Asia is that place - I know NYC very well and sadly it’s best days are over, as well as most of the major US cities.
Very well said Paul! I just found your channel and I have been living in San Francisco ever since I was 8 years old, my husband and I cannot wait to move there in 15 months! Thanks for sharing 😊
Great vid. I am going through the same right now....deep depression. Live in suburbs near NYC. I will be coming to Thailand for 3 months total in January, starting in Bangkok and staying in BKK for atleast 1 month. I train muay thai so it is my dream to train there. I also know massage and want to take Thai massage course. I have a feeling I'm going to fall in love with Thailand and never want to come home. Thank you for your videos, they are really helping me as I figure out how to navigate the city once I get there.
You can do this 🤝 Thailand will be amazing for you
"I have a feeling I'm going to fall in love with Thailand and never want to come home" I can guarantee you that it will happen!! It happens to everyone who comes to visit. You will fall in love with the friendly people, the peaceful calm environment, the food, and the culture. I was in Thailand last April for a whole month and I am returning to Thailand this November for another whole month! Need I say more?
Sawatdee krub Paul, I am a Thai American who left Chicago in 2008 and never looked back. I was in the US my entire life and thought that there could be no place on the planet that could be better to live in. Fortunately, in the past 15+ years since I left, the time that I spent as an international school Chemistry and Math teacher in Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, Myanmar, Germany, China, and Vietnam opened my mind to how much more beautiful life is everywhere else in the world. And in most of these places, the quality of life did indeed far exceed the quality of life that I ever had back in the US for many of the same reasons that you talked about in this video. Thailand has and always will be on the top of my list of the best places to live in the world. Congratulations to you in finding your peace and path in life. It would be nice to be able to meet you someday and pick each other's brains out about our more detailed experiences and life stories in regards to our time in the US and also in Thailand. Currently I am teaching in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, but I do travel back to my home in Chiang Mai, Thailand during my school's holidays. If you haven't seen much of Chiang Mai, perhaps you might change your mind about Bangkok being the best place in Thailand :) To me, Chiang Mai is my most favorite place in Thailand and is the number one place in Thailand that still maintains the true feeling of what it is like to be surrounded in Thai culture and be in the presence of truly kind local Thai people. Bangkok of the 1980s and 1990s was kinda like that then, but has sadly become just another over priced, commercialized, glitzy modern megacity like Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong, etc... FYI Bangkok's got nothing on the Thai food in Chiang Mai nor the natural landscapes and breathtaking views of Chiang Mai. When Bangkok does have fantastic Thai food, it usually costs and arm and a leg when compared to Chiang Mai''s Thai food options. Hua Hin down south is a close second for me too. Anyway, best of luck to you in The Land of Smiles and I hope to chat with you in person online and in person someday. Perhaps we can do an online zoom session for our RUclips channels in an interview style format. We could title it "Why two Asian Americans got a one way ticket the hell out of America". By the way, your dog is super adorable!!! Cheers and take care - Mek
When you said 3 years I was like hell yea, God bless on your journey and I'm truly happy you found your peace.
I have lived in a few asian countries and have also felt the difference in not just financially but peace of mind
and happiness not found in the US. Working on a stable wfh income and I should be out of here in 5 months.
Thank you for sharing your story Mr. Lee.
Setting myself up and ready to get the hell out of 🇺🇸 . Cant wait to come live in Thailand
You are so young and you GET IT. You are one intelligent young man. I feel the same way you do about America. Wishing you the best of life.
I've been in Bangkok on and off for 10 years and it changed me in a good way too. Interesting story and you are right about learning Thai. I hear you about America and how people spend money and disagree about most things. If you want to trade stories or get a coffee, I'm around living downtown with my gf. I'm up for meeting anyone new, hearing new stories or giving any advice on Thailand.. Keep your channel going
That's CRAZY! I live in Warner Robins, GA myself, and my wife are planning to move to Thailand.
I am older and well-traveled in Asia, and I have a lot of the same thoughts lately. Lift in America has become very inorganic (or should I say even more inorganic) lately and I really miss the sense of enjoying life (nature food and whatnot) when I lived and worked in Asia, as hard as the work was. The cultural details also left me wanting more from my current life filled with insurance policies and tax preparations. Anyhow, good for you young fellow. Look for me when I retire to some beachside bungalow in Koh Sumai in hopefully the not-too-distant future :)
thank you, and good luck to you sir!
Im here in kho samui now. Sitting on the Beach with nobody around krap
Meanwhile, thousands of Crazy Rich Asian line up with their 100 dollars and a form to play the lottery at a US embassy, hoping to win the right to see Mickey Mouse or eat bagel in New York.
@@eduardochavacanoThe grass is greener as they say.
I want to check out Thailand so bad. This video is definitely lighting the fire to get that ticket 🔥
Welcome to Thailand, This country is really beautiful and unique
Thank you!
just a stranger but really good on you for realizing you had a problem and left new york to deal with your dopamine issue. glad you love thailand and welcome!
Bro I feel this 100%. Im a day trader thinking of moving to Thailand at the end of this year
Great video! 👏🏽 We recently quit our jobs and are now travelling Asia full time, best thing we have ever done 😄
I’m a Californian that lived in the Philippines and I completely relate to you bro. There’s something about Asian culture that’s alluring for sure.
What is “Asian culture”?
I'm in Alabang Manila. Just about 30 days in. You gentlemen are telling the facts. Quality of life can't be compared. The lack of crime us absolutely shocking.
@@j2174 they focus on family. You don't see people with there ass hanging out of thier pants, you don't see wild crazy crime on the news every single day.
Your US dollar is 1 to 56 php. I say hello and get a hello back without the risk of moral combat.
They aren't being over ran by economic migrates like in America.
The culture here isn't offended by everything.
I can keep on and on and on
@@itsanewday5565 Isn’t Alabang one of the, if not the most developed and modern part of Manila? It has tons of skyscrapers, shopping malls, transport etc. it’s not representative. It’s because you have money.
@@j2174 all of my neighbors are Flippnos. I guess they don't count ?
Damn man literally everything you said I was thinking yesterday! Bangkok has become my favorite city in the world! love it here!
Dope channel popped up on my timeline. Been living in Korea for 20 years been traveling Philippines a lot just recently started visiting Thailand and love it. Dope video 🔥
Been in Bangkok for 2 weeks - from California and I don’t want to go back! Such a better quality of life here. So much cheaper and the people are incredibly nice
I moved to Bangkok May 2022… welcome to Thailand 🇹🇭🙏🏻😃
Respect your honesty. I can completely relate to many of the things you said. Living in Thailand now and happy.
I just spent 6 months in Europe and I am back in the US. I cannot wait to get BACK to Europe!!!
im here since 3 weeks now, doing dropshipping for 3 yrs and found good success earlier this year. Cant describe how life is so much better in bkk than back in Germany and how good I feel here. Gonna leave Germany completely in couple of months to live here most of the year.
Good idea man! Hope it goes well for you
Awesome story. Any tips on how you approach getting a visa to live there full time?
@@JustinVoinea a friend of mine has the same path and we are currently together here. He found a solid way to get long term visa by beeing on paper in a university here. Cost him like 1.8K, will probably do it also that way, but there are more options which are viable, need to do some research
@@JustinVoinea - Student Visa (language or Muay Thai) or the Elite Visa 5 year for approximately $17K. No age restriction. I heard it may change soon but do your research. Google it!
I randomly came up on your channel. As a fellow American and New Yorker I definitely understand how one can feel turned off with crime, expense and human indifference. I have also been considering moving abroad somewhere.
Learn Thai language and culture, you'll be happy in this land of smiles 😊
yes, i am learning everyday :)
@@iPaulLee very good. Many foreigners don't bother learning Thai
Very nice commentary - thanks for sharing. I agree with what you said about the states, but I think if you were a Thai living in Thailand you’d find they have some of the same issues you left behind, like politics and consumerism. However, as an expat you are able to opt out of those issues. That’s what I’ve done in my 25 years living in Asia and frankly what I like so much about living away.
Anyway, as I mentioned, nice commentary.
This is exactly whats happening here in U.S. right now. I want to leave too as well but I need to get my finances in order too. Need to figure out a way to live in Thailand long term because I heard VISA runs are getting strict with custom immigration at the Airports.
Hello Paul,
I just came across your channel and I must tell you being from USA I feel and know what you are saying I too bought a random ticket to Thailand and I also noticed the difference to make it short I’ve gone twice in three months just came back in August and looking forward to go back in October so I just want to say thank you for letting others know there is a lot more than keeping up with the joneses
Wow,
I randomly clicked on this video because I thought I could relate, but I didn't think I'd relate THIS much. I traveled when I was 18 to vietnam for a month and absolutely loved it. I have had similar goals about becoming rich and how I realized it wasn't fulfilling along with a severe c*caine addiction I'm working on getting sober from. My goal is to move to southeast asia and move away from the toxic US lifestyle I've been living.
I love this video! I wish you the best and I'm glad you were able to get away from that and move to a beautiful place.
Sounds like you cleaned up and found purpose in Thailand. That's a great thing. Congrats.
Another thing I could say there’s no NATURAL DISASTER in Bangkok
No tornado, No big flood, No earthquakes 🌎
Good point! The only thing is the occasional monsoons but it’s tolerable
Except the tsunami of 2004.
@@inspyr9That was man-made.
@@noyseleeqtard
@@inspyr9 this didn't affect Bangkok .....
I really appreciated your story! Move is always good. When you feel comfortable, this is very scary in terms of changes because it makes you stay in the same place. Changes are the best way to find out what you want in your life.
I’m Thai who immigrated into the U.S. 24 years ago and is near retiring. Of course, I want to be back to my home country but SSI and Medicare keep me here. So I’m the other way around.
AMEN! I'm 55 and still need to work another 10 years here in the US (I don't have a remote job), but fell in love with Thailand when I visited in 2019. I'm going to explore retiring there for all the reasons you mentioned. You are very blessed to be so young and aware. So blessed to have the financial freedom to do what you are doing. xo
Thailand is like an America of Southeast Asia. The only difference is most people aint so segregated. Most people try to blend in. Though, the majority of people are still Asians, just different types of Asians. So its much easier for Asian people who already share similar cultures to blend in perfectly.
I applaud you for the courage to make this move for your self! I relate to all your points about America. I moved from Illinois to Hawaii (Kauai) to live a simpler life. It is more simple in the fact that there aren’t a lot of choices in the consumer options. However it is quite pricey to live on these islands. I speak 2 languages however learning another one seems daunting to me at 57 years young. Would love to hear more about how you make it all work there. As in the legality of being an expat there. Mahalo and Aloha 🌺
I was in Thailand two months ago and I really want pickup and move there. All I really have is my condo to sell and the money I have been saving the past few years. All these points hit right at home and after meeting people in Thailand I really feel like I will find a more traditional lady there.
Just curious are you like retired in Thailand, still doing business in America or have a Thai job now? I am currently working as a Engineering Supervisor but been looking for similar jobs there, but I am wondering if I even need to be making such a significantly higher wage than I need to.
i just bought the Thai Elite Visa. I can't wait to gfto of the US
paradise awaits you!
I lived in Bangkok in the early 90s and have been back to visit a number of times. Your video is SPOT ON. Especially at about 5:47 and following, I was like, “Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!” You articulated so succinctly many of my same thoughts. All the best to you as you continue your journey!
Great video Paul. The western society is completely poisoned.
It's tragic but it's going downhill.
Americans saying 'West' when they just mean America
@@sblbb929not really. I also think of Canada and it’s authoritarianism, UK, France, etc.
Asia is authoritarian as well but in another way. It's really a preference on what BS you can tolerate. @@iPaulLee
100% agree
It's always amazing how similar people are even when many things are different. NYC would be on my list of the 5 Worst Cities in the US. At the same time, traveling to other parts of the world opens your eyes. I have lived and traveled in about 15 different countries so far, and I guess I am settling down now, because my wife has a Venezuelan passport so there are not as many open doors. I encourage EVERYONE to visit a different country from where you were born. The big, wide world is wonderful!
Great Story! A lot of people feel the same way. Glad you found what you are looking for at such a young age! Time is the most precious commodity we have. How do you make money now?
Thank you! I have Airbnb businesses as well as content, and investments.
Great video!!! I left the US for Hong Kong in 2012 and still have no desire to return. So many Americans feel like their stuck, but if they would only travel they would realize there's other, much better ways to live! All the best to you brother!!!
Great video. After moving back and forth between the US and Thailand for the past four years (I did 14 day quarantine too, lol) I moved back to Bangkok a month ago for the last time. The US is not a place I want to be in anymore for all the reasons you mentioned. This is home, and I knew that from the first moment I walked around Bangkok four years ago.
Great video. I am originally from NYC as well. I left NYC for many of the same reasons as you. Now i spend 80% time in Asia and 20% of time in South Florida. Love Thailand Bangkok. Best city of South East Asia for sure. I'll be working out in the outdoor workout area of Lumpini Park this week for sure.
The fact that you were able to realize what matters in life and subsequently make the needed changes while relatively young is incredible. Completely changing your life by relocating to a foriegn country doesn't work out for everyone. I think the key is knowing yourself very well. Congrats and carry on!👍👍
5:00 mate, you've described my reasons why I prefer Thailand over my home country. Exactly same story except I'm not an enterpreneur yet and have worked in Thailand. And it's much harder to get a job in Thailand because I have to explain the exact reasons you have stated why I would accept a lower salary than the salary in my first world home country which is also why i'm trying to build my own wealth.
ยินดีต้อนรับสู่ ประเทศไทย ครับ
🙏🏼
Thanks for sharing @PaulLee. I noticed on Quora a lot of Westerners complaining though that staying there is difficult because of the bureaucracy or "shake downs" by officials. I also notice that mostly men love living there. Not a lot of women. Can you address those topics? I visited Thailand several years ago, and I loved it. I found the people kind and welcoming. But I never considered it as a place to relocate, most likely at that time because I didn't want to be so far from home.
Bro I grew up in a small town in Georgia too (near Macon). Now, I'm in Thailand, and considering making it a second base. More than considering now, trying to figure out how to make multiple yearly trips. Personally, Seattle is home for me and I love it, but happy for you. I feel your pain with the violence against Asian Americans, as a black person, I hate to see that, and wish people could look past the physical characteristics of a person. The US is just.. crazy...
Anyway, peace to you!
I spent 4 weeks in Thailand (with a 3 day trip to Indonesia). I did not want to leave and I plan to retire there. BTW, I contracted pneumonia in my right lung and was hospitalized for 7 days. It was the BEST medical care I ever had. No hospital in the US or Canada can compare. English was not an issue and the doctors and nurses (I believe) saved my life. I look forward to calling Thailand “Home.”
I feel ya mate.. grew up in London, even from a middle class family, good education but was absolutely miserable... I went to HK for the first time in 1998 and after visiting a few other places in the region I fell in love with living in Asia immediately... I had opportunities that I could never even imagine whilst living back in UK, accomplished things I had never even dreamed of then due to visas was forced to leave and go back to UK to absolute misery and near suicidal depression even living in a nice house in a rich area.. money does NOT equal happiness.. it pays bills.. which is not the same thing.. life in the west is so competitive and about impressing others, materialism and media bombardment of bullshit trying to stress you out at every opportunity... 'you should do this, you should be like that'... its just bullshit.. in Asia people just leave you alone and respect your choices and freedom to be yourself... totally agree with you mate... ASIA is by far a better place to live... Thailand is the last on my list to visit becuase I know once I get there I will never want to leave so am just clearing up things here so when I do get there I will never have to come back!! UK and USA are great in their own way but they are also highly toxic places to live! almost by design??!! best of luck to ya out there man.. maybe bump into ya down the road... peace and respect!
I went to Thailand for 3 weeks right before the pandemic hit. What a lovely country and I can certainly see myself living there. Before that, I've been to India and Vietnam. Don't recommend India, but Vietnam is definitely on the list. Next on my list are Malaysia, China, Indonesia, and the Philippines. I want to visit all of them before I decide which country will be home base when I retire.
I love the US and there are a ton of places I haven't been to, but as Paul says, there are just too many "issues" for me to want to stay. Mainly money, because there's no way I can retire on my current income, but definitely doable in SEA.
same as I feel about UK.. I Love my country but its getting worse and worse with no improvement in sight and as I'm fast approaching 50 I just think there has to be better way to spend the last couple decades of my life.. @@calitaco
@@calitaco Philippines is nice , try to get out of the cities like Manila and travel a bit , nice friendly people , you will love it ...
@@calitaco so far which one is your heart beating for?
one of the best honest comments mate... kudos to you
Great video. I'm retired and been living in Jomtien Pattaya Thailand for about 8 months. I'm practicing minimalizm which is like something you mentioned. I has to do with NOT buy stuff you don't need. It makes you enjoy life a lot more and unlike America, here in Thailand there is no such thing as keeping up with the Joneses!
Exactly! Very peaceful and content
What made you pick Pattaya over Bangkok or Chiang Mai? If you have been to those other places in Thailand, what were the deciding factors to pick Pattaya?
I chose Jomtien Beach in Pattaya because its very reasonable as far as my finances are concerned
I also really love the tranquility of Jomtien. It gives me a small town vibe
Yeah, with that amount of honesty, you got a new subscriber with me
I moved out of Las Vegas to Thailand years ago and very happy with my decision. Full life for 1/3 the cost. Enjoy!
I live in Las Vegas too!
Although the costs aren’t as bad compared to other major cities
Good video Paul, thanks for sharing valuable experience. Question, how did you stay there for so long? I hear that Thai resident visa options for someone your age suck, and that it's far better to move to Philippines, would love to learn more.
Proud of your courage to move there and finding a gf in the process, man that’s a bonus!
I feel the same way you feel, being asian in America you really feel that polarization between certain groups and the negativity it brings. However, violence and corruption can happen anywhere in the world. Be careful out there.
I feel you bro. i'm looking to get out of the US myself...FOR GOOD. Bangkok seems like a cool place!