Nice, very good video! Love the walk around and budget out line. Ur voice is so soothing! Not sure where I'm Going to retire, it will be there or Philippines maybe Vietnam! Need to visit all Asia! Thanks again!
I’m 52 and winding up things as I write now, heading over in 1 month. Dear oh dear the choices I’m confronted with are giving me anxiety! Phuket? Chang Mai? Bangkok? And now bloody Pattaya! Lovely condo at the mini golf course. Thank you for the budget lead in. I’m not a drinker, nor am I keen to hit the bar girls. Out of all the many YT videos I have watched in the last couple of months on the subject, this is definately in the top 3. Beach looks great and private. Thank you, kind sir.
20,000 Baht for a gym membership is higher than in the USA. Loved the hidden beach you showed and also loved the reasonably priced restaurants you showed. Had an old friend who has since passed away who always showed me all the cheap little restaurants he found while retired in Pattaya. I am glad you are sharing your knowledge of the good deals in town. You provide a needed service on here.
The US gym membership in Alaska for a place not as nice as that is $1200 USD YR. Then again, that's Alaska for ya where everything is 15% more than other states on the "outside".
That's a lot more than U.S.A for sure, but in Thailand and in Laos gym membership is quite expensive because they import lots of stuff I think. I ain't gonna pay 20,000 Baht for a gym membership. I won't even need a gym. I need to walk in the evening.
I've been to Thailand 5 times but have never been to Pattaya. Your video has me thinking I should check it out. Was amazed you found a beach that wasn't swarming with jet skis.
Hi Daz I live in central Pattaya. I am addicted to your videos. I am retired aged 70. The best thing I have bought is an air-fryer. Really saves money and really cheap food from the likes of Tesco and big c little c. I lived in pratamnak for a while but not being motorcycle driver was not for me. Soi Buakow is the place to be. Everything is there and I mean everything. Keep the videos coming.
I’m like you … 70 and retired. Selling everything and moving this summer to Jomtein. Very relaxed. Soi Buakow is a little too non stop for me. I’ve never been to that gym. I’m a member of one off Second Road, across from Central Festival. Very important to stay active, healthy and explore. Such a cool new chapter in our lives. Cannot wait to begin the journey … with eyes wide open. Keep those vids coming … 👍🏾
the gym was an interesting tour. Plainly...most expats are NOT using such a facility or even considering it based on the typical girth I notice of foreigners there.
This series is timely for me Daz, been doing the back and forth for 25 years, getting ready to get over there, will be going the Thai elite visa though, less hassle. Bart's a great guy at the Muscle Factory, they also supply Keto Meals if you're into that.
i almost did the Elite visa route a few years ago. I am over 50 by 15 years but as you said, I like the convenience. Covid showed up two years ago when I really was literally on my way to Thailand. So I stayed in the USA, still doing my engineering contacting to really dosh up for retirement. Just started medicare and they bill me a lot for the premiums because I am still making money, but that will start tailing off. Then at the end of this year, I will see how Thailand is doing, no restrictions, etc. Not sure I will do the Elite or not though. They raised the price, which I can afford but.. well, TBD. Imagine if one had the Elite the last few years but then could not go to Thailand or had to leave. Wasted money
@@gkprivate433 yeah, I might just do the 1 year retire visa first, then decide if the elite is worth it, or even if I want to stay. Might check out Philippines and or Vietnam as well.
@@Antandthegrasshopper That is a very tough call. Things are changing so fast over there and here. I'm going to hedge my bets. Keep my house & home base for now. My mind is changing about committing to the long visa. Now I'm more of a mind to do 3 months Thailand, 3 months Philippines, and 3 months Vietnam. Spread out over a couple years. I really don't want to trap myself with buyers remorse stuck in a country because I didn't take my time to explore and contrast all my options. If that makes sense?
As someone who has been retired to Thailand, and living in the area of Pratumnak that you toured around, I really enjoyed the video! Just a couple of comments. 15,000 is quite high for rent. I pay 9k ($261 usd or 247 Euros) for a 50 sq meter studio condo, with a really nice big balcony, right on the beach in Pratumnak. Right across the street I looked at a very nice place going for just 7k, but unfortunately with no balcony. Overall, I spend slightly less per month than your budget, but with my priorities in different areas. I spend more on food, but far less on soft drinks/water/beer. But then I do almost all my own cooking, and buy water in bulk. You mention at the end of the video about the cost of female companionship. One of the things you didn't mention, and which many ex-pats find happening after a few years, is that the bar scene can grow old, and a steady girlfriend can be far more desirable. Many actually find a Thai wife, though I have never gone that route yet. Finding one special lady is not only far more satisfying from a relationship perspective, but can be a lot less of a strain on the pocketbook as well. Just a thought. Going into year 8, and I've never regretted the move here.
@@ryanomeasoo Hi Ryan. I'm in View Talay 3, right at the bottom of Pratumnak Hill, just off of Soi 6. If you're interested, let me know, and I can give you the number of a great rental agent, who helped me find this place. As long as that is ok with EP.
I heard that if your Thai wife gets tired of you; the law allows her to take all you got in time... plus i'm not interested in taking care of her whole family... I heard that is a plan they have. Also to impress her friends; she expects you to treat them when you all go out or if you meet them through her on the relaxed night out sceen... can you answer that for me... thxs.. 🪴🪴🪴🪴
@@slooo9 Well, I've not gotten married since I've been here, and don't really plan to. Most of what you have heard is more or less true, though you left out the lovely practice of sin sot ... which is the price the groom pays to the bride-to-be's family. The younger and more desirable the girl, the higher the expected sin sot. Marriage here (hey, like anywhere now) is all just a quagmire that I've worked really hard to avoid. The way around that is to find a nice Thai lady who isn't 40 years younger than you are, and develop a nice relationship with her. If you are lucky, you can find a great lady who isn't set on marriage. I was very fortunate to meet a complete sweetheart, who I met when she came to clean my condo during the covid lockdowns, believe it or not. She's 20 years younger than me, slim, cute and loving, and marriage has never come up in the 6 months we've been together. There are plenty of available, single Thai ladies even in Pattaya, and who aren't working as bar girls. Previous to meeting my current gf, I dated several ladies who worked at massage spas ... the legit ones, not the rub and tug variety. After getting a couple of massages, and building up a bit of a rapport, I'd simply ask them out for dinner and maybe a movie. Most are really happy to go. In fact, I never had one say no! The key in Thailand is the realize that relationships are viewed differently than they are in Western countries. One of the best ways to solidify your relationship here is to tell the lady how much you want to "share" with her every month. And it doesn't have to be a fortune. Realize that a 40 year old lady, working at a regular paying full time job, is likely making between 10-12,000 baht per month. That's only $348 USD. So if you offer to "share" with her something extra, she will often be more than happy.
I commented earlier on the beautiful apartment but now that I see the pool and gym and I am even more impressed!!!! Imagine what a comparable place with ocean views would set you back in the states.
I certainly have been to that beach many times when I first came to Pattaya 28 years ago and stayed in the Island View Hotel next to the Cosy hotel. Those were the days.
another excellent vlog mate........been going to Patts for a long long time and never knew this beach existed....i could definetly see myself lying on that beach......ive had great afternoon sessions in Kinarree.
I love these condo tour videos with something for all budgets, so thanks for the great info. I’m leaning more towards Thailand now, as the Philippines persists with it stricter restrictions. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience.
10 years and 5 months until retirement at age 54, but who's counting! For those living in the west, finding retirement in Thailand is like discovering the cheat code for life. I can't get enough of these videos 👍
I am Asian living in a shiny city in Asia, I retired at 43, now 55 ...meaning no corporate sabre rattling and battling for over a decade. Thailand, I like the food. I like doing stuff there. Hotels for its price , you can get great quality. Still i don't like the 3rd world look. broken look. I prefer Portugal. Algarve region is great. Prices cheap in comparison with my city.
The condo building great spot, with the small non popular beach. Reminded me of the selcuded, not known small beach at Manly, Sydney. The only issue with the condo, where, 1. Small kitchenette 2. Didn't like the lounge. Does this residential building have bigger kitchens? Enjoy your videos, as your providing a service.
Awesome Daz. It is very manageable. The chart breakdown is great. I booked the Acqua Condo in Jomtein Beach for a month in October which gives me time to assess everything for next March, and will surely join that gym. Thanks for posting.
Great video of a really nice area. A single person in the UK who's paid off the mortgage on a £250k house, could sell it and live in Pattaya comfortably for a long time. So tempting.
I've been busy but catching up on your videos. Daz this is one of your best for me. I didn't know about the secret beach but I did know about the little market and actually my first day living in Pratamnak I did some shopping for the condo I rented. Also thank you for the information about getting a visa agent rather than having to put nearly $25k USD into a Thai account. After seeing this video I'm more convinced that my retirement in Pattaya is definitely possible.
I just return from a two week stay at Pattaya. I enjoyed myself and stayed in a nice condo unit verses down at soi buakhao area. I did go down to Buakhao area for the great foot and neck/back massage. I wish I saw your video before I went to Pattaya. I went to the night markets and enjoyed the foods. The lotus market is a great place to buy necessities. Make sure you find a place that has a washing machine. There is a great all you can eat seafood restaurant near the Riveria jomtien condos. Another option is the Riveria Jomtien condos. I stayed here and I found the price ranges from $10,000 baht for one bedroom up to $25,000 for a two bedroom. This place has three pools and gym that is pretty nice. There is also a place nearby, Parklane condos. The price cost $6,000 Baht a month and up which is nice but does not have the view and fancy amenities. Great video.... everything pattaya. I hope to meet you the next time I am in pattaya.
Great Daz. Wow. I could significantly cut my outgoings by retiring to Thailand. The $64k question is health insurance and/or healthcare costs. If you are lucky and have good health, Thailand is cheap for long stays, but I recently investigated a couple of procedures at Bangkok Pattaya Hospital and it wasn't much less than UK prices. That is a dilema and a problem with pre-existing issues. I could split the time and spend 5.5 months in Thailand and 6.5 months either in UK or Australia (as I have joint UK/Aussie citizenship) and I think when I am ready to move, that is probably my solution. Phra tam nak looks like a great place. Funny to see the old Asia Hotel. That was in the middle of nowhere back in 1986 when I first came!
You are dead right about health insurance and medical expenses. As a 70 year old with diabetes , I expect to pay US $500 per month, quite apart from medical expenses that are excluded. But even then, It may be cheaper overall than the US. And certainly better weather and more interesting culture. I am torn between Pattaya and Hua Hin. The condos in Pattaya seem cheaper, but I think I would prefer HH. I will find out when I get there in September.
@@malin5468 Pattaya and HH are different, so best spend a bit of time at each to decide which is best for you. I am younger than you but with a couple of issues which are pre-existing so would not be covered for those. Medical treatment at Western standards in Thailand is close to Western prices, so people need to think about that, especially those with pre-existing conditions. I have heard so many sad stories of folks getting caught out by this. If I keep a foot either in the UK or Australia, I can scoot back to one of those places if I am unlucky enough to need any major care. Everyday issues don't matter. It's big ones that could be an issue. Human nature is to take good health for granted while you have it, but in reality we can all get a short straw at any time. This should not stop us living overseas, but just make sure the contingency plans are in place. Good luck.
@@MrGman2804 Thanks for the response. Assuming my Social Security comes through, I am planning to retire to Thailand in September. I am a dual US-UK citizen, so could go back to the UK if/when I need treatment. Yes I will probably try out both cities.
@@malin5468 Hi. Regarding using the NHS, if you are out of the UK for a long period, do not pay tax and do not have a UK address there can be issues. I have not encountered it myself, but I know of someone who did. Try to at least get a UK address, even if it is a mate, and try and register with the GP practice for the address. Anyway, I won't interfere too much, but it is something to look up, because there was a vlogger on here who used to have a channel about Pattaya, and he found he could not return to the UK for treatment, which cost him a lot. See channel for Kev-In-Thailand th-cam.com/video/pX57LxmJmfc/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=Kev-In-Thailand . Cheers.
@@MrGman2804 Yes, I heard about poor Kev. I do have an address (sister’s house) and bank account in the UK and am hoping to receive a small UK pension, so perhaps that might qualify me. If not, then I will have to find somewhere else in Asia. But moving countries in ones seventies does not sound like fun.
Great info on this video, Daz! The way you have the monthly price budget is a great tool to work with! I'm 57 and hoping to visit Pattaya by the end of the year!
Fantastic hidden beach and small bars. Very old school. Amazing they haven't been taken over by greedy developers. The Irish restaurant is great value for Sunday roasts. Cheers Daz! Will tell them you sent me when I go for a Sunday lunch ...
Hey Daz, As always great information. It really makes a difference when someone kinda parts the red sea for ya. I really liked the Condo on SOI 5. The gym equipment was free. As far as the other Fancy Gym? "Very Nice" but way too expensive for Thailand. Reason being? I did the Interior finishes for GOLD"S GYM all across the U.S.A. for over 17 years. The layout was similar, but I noticed no T.V. monitors in them. But I must say for being in Pattaya, it's a beautiful facility.
Thanks again Daz, good work ! That gym price is kinda high. Here in the USA we have franchised gyms with thousands of locations charging only $10/month or ~4K thb/yr.
@@MrNodrog64 Planet Fitness - over 2,000 gyms in 6 countries, one of the largest gyms in the world in terms of number of locations and subscribed members - only $10/month total. Every one of them comparable to the gym featured in this video, for 1/5 the cost.
One of the most useful videos on TH-cam. Also, I remember you made one about an older, spacious condo that is near the Muscle Factory. Might help save on gas money and perhaps rent.
Daz excellent clip indeed that Gym is one of the best I have seen great prices one place I would go to very much so.That area seems the go as I love it over there out of the hassle and grind down of being in the centre of pattaya.You can only last so much in Pattaya that little place you go to for Breakfast looks the go with great prices as well.There is always costs to save on long term weather 3 to 6 or 12 months.Retirement plenty around Asia to help with that task very much so.Look forward to the next clip Daz.
I have a friend that retired there and is living a heck of a life let me tell you. His budget is about 6K per month US. He said likes it better than Mexico where he used to live. This guy retired when he was 45 now 54.
I love those these charts 😍. I do charts for my living and I find this just makes it so clear so well done 👏. Condo looked really nice I'll have to look back where it was I missed the address. That's a really nice pool man. Another nice lady showing us around 😜. Can't we just date these and not pay any bar fines 😅. That's a great gym 😲. OMG a sauna. And a steam room too 🤯🇹🇭🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺
If you get here a little earlier in life it gets even cheaper. We have a 4 bed/4 bath house in north Pattaya already paid off and a new truck, paid off. We also have some property and a 20 rai farm in P-lok, also paid off. When I retire I will be able to live on practically no money at all. The farm should be all the income I need, which should be about 500USD a month
@@TheRickfire You can buy a condo, but no free standing house or farm. My wife owns all the property on paper. We have been together 16 years now with 2 teenage kids, so I am not worried about her running off with it.
If your a gym rat like me well worth the price. Good gyms are hard to find. You will save money in the long term as you won’t drink as much, gym keeps you healthy and active.
keep in mind that if go that area, for a long term stay a motorcycle is just about mandatory. So consider that in advance. Make sure you get a motorcycle license in your country. It makes insurance and riders actually work. many people get bit in the ass when they find out their insurance policy had fine print about being properly licensed
I just love watching these videos and laugh at how many Honda PCX's I see in every video. I'm 55 and own 2 cars but I also have a PCX which I love riding. I would fit in perfectly there lol.
Would be glad if in the overview at the beginning you would also give the numbers in Euros, not only in USD, GBP and AUD. Thank you very much for your recent videos aimed at prospective retirees.
Thank you for this video. One subject I'd like to see you cover - especially for retiring expats - are services older people are going to need - including the rather unpleasant subject of funeral and burial/cremation or having remains sent back to your home country. And how various age-related conditions are handled or treated (strokes, dementia/Alzheimer's, etc.). Much if not all of that does not make for a fun video by any means, but it's material retiring expats should know.
@@mattblack9344 - Thai citizenship is very difficult and takes years. You had better know at least enough of the language to sing the Thai National Anthem (not a joke - it’s a requirement!). Maybe Daz can revisit with Darren of Key Visa on this. One benefit of citizenship if you’re a gun guy - citizens can own them. Foreigners cannot.
Liked the condo next to the 9 hole pitch and put golf course, good pool and gym, reasonable price too 680 NZD and as for the blackboard specials Roast Chicken and desert 9 NZD ! hard to beat ! Can you negotiate these prices at all ? ( condo), just subscribed today, coming for a month in January but not Pattaya maybe next time , cheers !
Great info again Daz, the Pratamnak area is definitely 1 of the nicest and affordable places to live in Pattaya. From looking at your figures as a rough guide I should be able to do this as long as I keep my visits to the Kinaree for a Wednesday lunchtime only that way I can also get a good feed for the day.
Excellent information. I would have liked to have seen your estimate for the " GF experience" type relationship for a month. After all, the video is about retiring there. Thanks for your excellent efforts with these type videos
Damn ..... I can actually afford that as it is .... However ... You got to aim higher because of 2 things: 1) Exchange rate (my danish kroner has gone from 6,1 baht pr. krone to now 4,8 baht pr. krone in 11 years) and 2) inflation rate. If your money isn't increasing at least with a percentage similar to the inflation rate, then your money is getting less and less worth. (Sorry for the babbling - this is my field of work and I tend to be overly careful) ... But nevertheless thanks for yet another great video with great info from the grounds :) - but very surprised about gym prices - thats more than here in Denmark!
I know that beach, went there a couple of times the last time I was in Pattaya just prior to the pandemic. I actually stayed in the Asia Pattaya hotel the very first time I came to Pattaya & first ever holiday in Thailand back in 1995 so used that beach regularly when I was a guest at the hotel.
To start nice video and very informative. The condo you showed is more of a motel room than a condo here in the states are there larger places to rent at a decent price or even maybe decent homes to rent that want break the bank if looking to live there full time?
i can confirm Here Chai is a very good place to eat. The gym is a tad pricey. I pay £21 pcm here in the uk. 24 hr access, all classes, all you can eat toilet paper.
Thanks more great info, I am on holiday in Pattaya at the moment, I was actually at beach bum bar on Monday visiting a mate who was staying in room there and I can’t believe it but I am briefly in you video😂 😂 I am sat on the left in red tee shirt having a beer with 2 friends, sorry I never spotted you 😅😂👍
Regarding health insurance, the cheapest i can find, with sufficient limits is $120 usd per month, i am 62. Its called patriot International or something similar. Maybe you can explore further in the future. perhaps make some suggestions. Thanks
Wow beautiful and very informative video! I spend or rather wasted about 3K/mo here in Toronto WITHOUT leaving the house, not eating out. That lifestyle you mentioned looks fun for half the cost in here? Sign me up! Heading there this summer! Can't wait!
Hi daz I revisited this video since I will be in pattaya and want to look at a few condos in phra thamnak area. I remember you also spoke with some real estate folks. Did you find them reliable. Thank you for the very informative video
Just thought I'd mention that having a pool and gym as part of the monthly rental is something I've realised you'd probably pay for anyway, if living in a cheaper place, i.e. occasional pool visits and gym membership. Depends on the facilities though. Anyone know what a standard gym membership costs per month? I'd assume 1-2k baht.
Been to that beach many times... Thanks for a tour of the muscle factory. If I do move to the hill, it will be handy... currently considering it... Seen the Wolfhound many times (and mgt/owner changed recently) and have been wanting to try their ribs for the longest time... Having been forced to look at insurance for ThaiPass, what a mine field! (still kinda lost)... Wondering if you have done a review of the Nordic places (as they take up soo much of the land around the Soi 4-6 area on the hill, but I've heard a lot of bad news about them (and something about the mgt having done a runner (again))...
Nice gym, but the fees are more than many USA gyms with more equipment. It looks bigger than it is, because of the mirrors. Did she say the classes WERE included or NOT included?
Got a buddy who did this for a few years on his army pension, cheap beer, girls and wifi hah all you need I guess. Then went bumming around the world on a sailboat for a decade, now he's married no a korean lady and living on jeju. Yea i'm pretty jelly hah shes sooo pretty too.
Hello Daz, Yet another great video. You mentioned having an Agent to help with the high cost and paperwork of retirement Visa's. Can you recommend an Agent or maybe even do a video on how to obtain an Agent and what they charge. Thank you so much
Thanks for the quality content. I'm 47, currently retired in the Philippines just because the visa is so easy - but I'm still weighing up which Health insurance to buy. My quotes are generally between £130 to £250 GBP per month - age 47 in good health with no pre-existing conditions. So in Thai Baht that's between 5,600 and 10,800 per month. That's with Cigna and the other well known companies. You've listed 2000 baht / £48 in your chart - which is much lower than I'm seeing? I guess for us Brits with UK addresses and bank accounts and tax payers, we would fly home for anything like Cancer etc - so my main concern is accident and emergency cover - especially motorcycle accidents. If anyone has any good cover options/prices they can share to help me? Thanks all!
If you plan on flying back here for cancer treatment, you'll die here unless your in BUPA. The waiting list is too long for any possible chance of survival.
Dearest Daz, you ain’t making videos. You’re doing public service. This one was one of the best in your channel in my opinion. Thanks
@@davids736 I’m from the wild wild Texas and told Daz many a times that his voice is like a perfect mixture of voices of Stallone and Sean Connery.
Wow, thanks
Bloomin ek, Ah's reet chuffed, now't wrong wi thaat, eh lad, Cheers an ta-rah.
Nice, very good video! Love the walk around and budget out line. Ur voice is so soothing! Not sure where I'm Going to retire, it will be there or Philippines maybe Vietnam! Need to visit all Asia! Thanks again!
I’m 52 and winding up things as I write now, heading over in 1 month. Dear oh dear the choices I’m confronted with are giving me anxiety! Phuket? Chang Mai? Bangkok? And now bloody Pattaya! Lovely condo at the mini golf course. Thank you for the budget lead in. I’m not a drinker, nor am I keen to hit the bar girls. Out of all the many YT videos I have watched in the last couple of months on the subject, this is definately in the top 3. Beach looks great and private. Thank you, kind sir.
20,000 Baht for a gym membership is higher than in the USA. Loved the hidden beach you showed and also loved the reasonably priced restaurants you showed. Had an old friend who has since passed away who always showed me all the cheap little restaurants he found while retired in Pattaya. I am glad you are sharing your knowledge of the good deals in town. You provide a needed service on here.
The US gym membership in Alaska for a place not as nice as that is $1200 USD YR. Then again, that's Alaska for ya where everything is 15% more than other states on the "outside".
That's a lot more than U.S.A for sure, but in Thailand and in Laos gym membership is quite expensive because they import lots of stuff I think.
I ain't gonna pay 20,000 Baht for a gym membership. I won't even need a gym. I need to walk in the evening.
I've been to Thailand 5 times but have never been to Pattaya. Your video has me thinking I should check it out. Was amazed you found a beach that wasn't swarming with jet skis.
Hi Daz I live in central Pattaya. I am addicted to your videos. I am retired aged 70. The best thing I have bought is an air-fryer. Really saves money and really cheap food from the likes of Tesco and big c little c. I lived in pratamnak for a while but not being motorcycle driver was not for me. Soi Buakow is the place to be. Everything is there and I mean everything. Keep the videos coming.
Thanks for sharing
How much is your cost of living there?
I’m like you … 70 and retired. Selling everything and moving this summer to Jomtein. Very relaxed. Soi Buakow is a little too non stop for me. I’ve never been to that gym. I’m a member of one off Second Road, across from Central Festival. Very important to stay active, healthy and explore. Such a cool new chapter in our lives. Cannot wait to begin the journey … with eyes wide open. Keep those vids coming … 👍🏾
@@superstarjones382 I have a lady every day my monthly cost is at least 90000 baht. Monthly costs vary so much. Purely a personal choice.
@@bobbiegoestopattaya4239 A true baller! 🤣
I love this place Daz. It reminds me of Pattaya back in 1989. This is for me. You are #1 Daz. Thanks a lot.
I’m aiming on 35k or so. Without touching lump sum. Nice that tower place ..
the gym was an interesting tour. Plainly...most expats are NOT using such a facility or even considering it based on the typical girth I notice of foreigners there.
This series is timely for me Daz, been doing the back and forth for 25 years, getting ready to get over there, will be going the Thai elite visa though, less hassle. Bart's a great guy at the Muscle Factory, they also supply Keto Meals if you're into that.
i almost did the Elite visa route a few years ago. I am over 50 by 15 years but as you said, I like the convenience. Covid showed up two years ago when I really was literally on my way to Thailand. So I stayed in the USA, still doing my engineering contacting to really dosh up for retirement. Just started medicare and they bill me a lot for the premiums because I am still making money, but that will start tailing off. Then at the end of this year, I will see how Thailand is doing, no restrictions, etc. Not sure I will do the Elite or not though. They raised the price, which I can afford but.. well, TBD. Imagine if one had the Elite the last few years but then could not go to Thailand or had to leave. Wasted money
@@gkprivate433 yeah, I might just do the 1 year retire visa first, then decide if the elite is worth it, or even if I want to stay. Might check out Philippines and or Vietnam as well.
Are towels free?
@Dave, are you selling everything and moving or will keep the home base in US? I have a house here and not sure if I'll like it over there long term.
@@Antandthegrasshopper That is a very tough call. Things are changing so fast over there and here. I'm going to hedge my bets. Keep my house & home base for now. My mind is changing about committing to the long visa. Now I'm more of a mind to do 3 months Thailand, 3 months Philippines, and 3 months Vietnam. Spread out over a couple years. I really don't want to trap myself with buyers remorse stuck in a country because I didn't take my time to explore and contrast all my options. If that makes sense?
Thank you my friend, it was an interesting and informative tour that I benefited from. Good night 🙋♂️
As someone who has been retired to Thailand, and living in the area of Pratumnak that you toured around, I really enjoyed the video! Just a couple of comments.
15,000 is quite high for rent. I pay 9k ($261 usd or 247 Euros) for a 50 sq meter studio condo, with a really nice big balcony, right on the beach in Pratumnak. Right across the street I looked at a very nice place going for just 7k, but unfortunately with no balcony. Overall, I spend slightly less per month than your budget, but with my priorities in different areas. I spend more on food, but far less on soft drinks/water/beer. But then I do almost all my own cooking, and buy water in bulk.
You mention at the end of the video about the cost of female companionship. One of the things you didn't mention, and which many ex-pats find happening after a few years, is that the bar scene can grow old, and a steady girlfriend can be far more desirable. Many actually find a Thai wife, though I have never gone that route yet. Finding one special lady is not only far more satisfying from a relationship perspective, but can be a lot less of a strain on the pocketbook as well. Just a thought.
Going into year 8, and I've never regretted the move here.
what was your condo?? any map links perhaps? Thanks.
@@ryanomeasoo Hi Ryan. I'm in View Talay 3, right at the bottom of Pratumnak Hill, just off of Soi 6.
If you're interested, let me know, and I can give you the number of a great rental agent, who helped me find this place. As long as that is ok with EP.
@@murrayallinger2830 AWESOME! Thank you so much! I saved this message and will reach out when I finally make my way to y'all!! lol
I heard that if your Thai wife gets tired of you; the law allows her to take all you got in time... plus i'm not interested in taking care of her whole family... I heard that is a plan they have. Also to impress her friends; she expects you to treat them when you all go out or if you meet them through her on the relaxed night out sceen... can you answer that for me... thxs.. 🪴🪴🪴🪴
@@slooo9 Well, I've not gotten married since I've been here, and don't really plan to. Most of what you have heard is more or less true, though you left out the lovely practice of sin sot ... which is the price the groom pays to the bride-to-be's family. The younger and more desirable the girl, the higher the expected sin sot. Marriage here (hey, like anywhere now) is all just a quagmire that I've worked really hard to avoid.
The way around that is to find a nice Thai lady who isn't 40 years younger than you are, and develop a nice relationship with her. If you are lucky, you can find a great lady who isn't set on marriage. I was very fortunate to meet a complete sweetheart, who I met when she came to clean my condo during the covid lockdowns, believe it or not. She's 20 years younger than me, slim, cute and loving, and marriage has never come up in the 6 months we've been together.
There are plenty of available, single Thai ladies even in Pattaya, and who aren't working as bar girls. Previous to meeting my current gf, I dated several ladies who worked at massage spas ... the legit ones, not the rub and tug variety. After getting a couple of massages, and building up a bit of a rapport, I'd simply ask them out for dinner and maybe a movie. Most are really happy to go. In fact, I never had one say no!
The key in Thailand is the realize that relationships are viewed differently than they are in Western countries. One of the best ways to solidify your relationship here is to tell the lady how much you want to "share" with her every month. And it doesn't have to be a fortune. Realize that a 40 year old lady, working at a regular paying full time job, is likely making between 10-12,000 baht per month. That's only $348 USD. So if you offer to "share" with her something extra, she will often be more than happy.
Daz really does have the most informative videos of what we all really want to know about. He needs more subscribers.
Ha Ha
Wow this is great information. Thank you! I especially loved the menu with all the prices and misspellings! lol Awesome. :)
Wow, thats a high end western style gym with prices to match. Thanks for the great narration Daz 👍
can only rhyme when pjoe time 555
Can’t believe I’m watching retirement videos but here I am. Thanks for your upload
K always come out smarter and more knowledgeable from your vids! Thx alot
This is an excellent property and the price is very good and the neighborhood is very good and the beach is awesome.
I commented earlier on the beautiful apartment but now that I see the pool and gym and I am even more impressed!!!! Imagine what a comparable place with ocean views would set you back in the states.
I certainly have been to that beach many times when I first came to Pattaya 28 years ago and stayed in the Island View Hotel next to the Cosy hotel. Those were the days.
Can you do a video on the gyms the hotels near and cost for both. Enjoying your channel keep up the good work I’m heading back to Thailand late April.
another excellent vlog mate........been going to Patts for a long long time and never knew this beach existed....i could definetly see myself lying on that beach......ive had great afternoon sessions in Kinarree.
I love these condo tour videos with something for all budgets, so thanks for the great info. I’m leaning more towards Thailand now, as the Philippines persists with it stricter restrictions. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience.
10 years and 5 months until retirement at age 54, but who's counting! For those living in the west, finding retirement in Thailand is like discovering the cheat code for life. I can't get enough of these videos 👍
Bro.. U said it best!!!!!
I'll be the super old guy at the pattaya space shuttle when you finally retire 😆
62 Now Should have my life liquidated here in America and be there by 65. Just want you to know I really enjoy your videos. 👍 job brother!
@@JSTXRPXLMULE congrats bro...you excited for the trip?
I am Asian living in a shiny city in Asia, I retired at 43, now 55 ...meaning no corporate sabre rattling and battling for over a decade. Thailand, I like the food. I like doing stuff there. Hotels for its price , you can get great quality. Still i don't like the 3rd world look. broken look. I prefer Portugal. Algarve region is great. Prices cheap in comparison with my city.
The condo building great spot, with the small non popular beach. Reminded me of the selcuded, not known small beach at Manly, Sydney.
The only issue with the condo, where,
1. Small kitchenette
2. Didn't like the lounge.
Does this residential building have bigger kitchens?
Enjoy your videos, as your providing a service.
Awesome Daz. It is very manageable. The chart breakdown is great. I booked the Acqua Condo in Jomtein Beach for a month in October which gives me time to assess everything for next March, and will surely join that gym. Thanks for posting.
Great video of a really nice area. A single person in the UK who's paid off the mortgage on a £250k house, could sell it and live in Pattaya comfortably for a long time. So tempting.
Rent your house , lots do , safer way if shit hits the fan . Good luck
Always rent and keep your money and assets in your home country. You need to plan for leaving as most don’t stay until death.
I've been busy but catching up on your videos. Daz this is one of your best for me. I didn't know about the secret beach but I did know about the little market and actually my first day living in Pratamnak I did some shopping for the condo I rented. Also thank you for the information about getting a visa agent rather than having to put nearly $25k USD into a Thai account. After seeing this video I'm more convinced that my retirement in Pattaya is definitely possible.
Glad it was helpful
I've been living in Pratemnack for a few months, so I have been to White beach several times. Good video.
I just return from a two week stay at Pattaya. I enjoyed myself and stayed in a nice condo unit verses down at soi buakhao area. I did go down to Buakhao area for the great foot and neck/back massage. I wish I saw your video before I went to Pattaya. I went to the night markets and enjoyed the foods. The lotus market is a great place to buy necessities. Make sure you find a place that has a washing machine.
There is a great all you can eat seafood restaurant near the Riveria jomtien condos.
Another option is the Riveria Jomtien condos. I stayed here and I found the price ranges from $10,000 baht for one bedroom up to $25,000 for a two bedroom. This place has three pools and gym that is pretty nice. There is also a place nearby, Parklane condos. The price cost $6,000 Baht a month and up which is nice but does not have the view and fancy amenities.
Great video.... everything pattaya. I hope to meet you the next time I am in pattaya.
NDTVI showed that beach 2 years ago in a video.
It's cool. Was there last month. Mostly alone.
Thx for the video.
Great Daz. Wow. I could significantly cut my outgoings by retiring to Thailand. The $64k question is health insurance and/or healthcare costs. If you are lucky and have good health, Thailand is cheap for long stays, but I recently investigated a couple of procedures at Bangkok Pattaya Hospital and it wasn't much less than UK prices. That is a dilema and a problem with pre-existing issues. I could split the time and spend 5.5 months in Thailand and 6.5 months either in UK or Australia (as I have joint UK/Aussie citizenship) and I think when I am ready to move, that is probably my solution. Phra tam nak looks like a great place. Funny to see the old Asia Hotel. That was in the middle of nowhere back in 1986 when I first came!
You are dead right about health insurance and medical expenses. As a 70 year old with diabetes , I expect to pay US $500 per month, quite apart from medical expenses that are excluded. But even then, It may be cheaper overall than the US. And certainly better weather and more interesting culture. I am torn between Pattaya and Hua Hin. The condos in Pattaya seem cheaper, but I think I would prefer HH. I will find out when I get there in September.
@@malin5468 Pattaya and HH are different, so best spend a bit of time at each to decide which is best for you. I am younger than you but with a couple of issues which are pre-existing so would not be covered for those. Medical treatment at Western standards in Thailand is close to Western prices, so people need to think about that, especially those with pre-existing conditions. I have heard so many sad stories of folks getting caught out by this. If I keep a foot either in the UK or Australia, I can scoot back to one of those places if I am unlucky enough to need any major care. Everyday issues don't matter. It's big ones that could be an issue. Human nature is to take good health for granted while you have it, but in reality we can all get a short straw at any time. This should not stop us living overseas, but just make sure the contingency plans are in place. Good luck.
@@MrGman2804 Thanks for the response. Assuming my Social Security comes through, I am planning to retire to Thailand in September. I am a dual US-UK citizen, so could go back to the UK if/when I need treatment. Yes I will probably try out both cities.
@@malin5468 Hi. Regarding using the NHS, if you are out of the UK for a long period, do not pay tax and do not have a UK address there can be issues. I have not encountered it myself, but I know of someone who did. Try to at least get a UK address, even if it is a mate, and try and register with the GP practice for the address. Anyway, I won't interfere too much, but it is something to look up, because there was a vlogger on here who used to have a channel about Pattaya, and he found he could not return to the UK for treatment, which cost him a lot. See channel for Kev-In-Thailand th-cam.com/video/pX57LxmJmfc/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=Kev-In-Thailand . Cheers.
@@MrGman2804 Yes, I heard about poor Kev. I do have an address (sister’s house) and bank account in the UK and am hoping to receive a small UK pension, so perhaps that might qualify me. If not, then I will have to find somewhere else in Asia. But moving countries in ones seventies does not sound like fun.
Very good video and monthly chart.. u neeed to add a room cleaner... u dont want to do it yourself..
Also good condos includes high speed wifi..
Great info on this video, Daz! The way you have the monthly price budget is a great tool to work with! I'm 57 and hoping to visit Pattaya by the end of the year!
Best of luck!
Excellent vid and great info! One thing I couldn’t help noticing on that first rooftop was the low railing. Don’t be getting really drunk up there! 😱
Fantastic hidden beach and small bars. Very old school. Amazing they haven't been taken over by greedy developers. The Irish restaurant is great value for Sunday roasts. Cheers Daz! Will tell them you sent me when I go for a Sunday lunch ...
Hey Daz, As always great information. It really makes a difference when someone kinda parts the red sea for ya. I really liked the Condo on SOI 5. The gym equipment was free. As far as the other Fancy Gym? "Very Nice" but way too expensive for Thailand. Reason being? I did the Interior finishes for GOLD"S GYM all across the U.S.A. for over 17 years. The layout was similar, but I noticed no T.V. monitors in them. But I must say for being in Pattaya, it's a beautiful facility.
Thanks again Daz, good work ! That gym price is kinda high. Here in the USA we have franchised gyms with thousands of locations charging only $10/month or ~4K thb/yr.
Is that the USA Federal penitentiary gym you referring to for $ US 10 month ??? 🧐🙄🤪😜😂🤣
@@MrNodrog64 Planet Fitness - over 2,000 gyms in 6 countries, one of the largest gyms in the world in terms of number of locations and subscribed members - only $10/month total. Every one of them comparable to the gym featured in this video, for 1/5 the cost.
yes but 90% of Americans admit they have had sex in the shower. 10% replied they hadn't been to prison ......
How long is a piece of string ?
It doesn't matter what the price of a gym is in the US.
One of the most useful videos on TH-cam. Also, I remember you made one about an older, spacious condo that is near the Muscle Factory. Might help save on gas money and perhaps rent.
Ruamchok 2 was the name and I pause outside in this video
Daz excellent clip indeed that Gym is one of the best I have seen great prices one place I would go to very much so.That area seems the go as I love it over there out of the hassle and grind down of being in the centre of pattaya.You can only last so much in Pattaya that little place you go to for Breakfast looks the go with great prices as well.There is always costs to save on long term weather 3 to 6 or 12 months.Retirement plenty around Asia to help with that task very much so.Look forward to the next clip Daz.
Thanks for another great video! Never been to Thailand, but planning to. There is a lot of amazing experiences out there)
I have a friend that retired there and is living a heck of a life let me tell you. His budget is about 6K per month US. He said likes it better than Mexico where he used to live. This guy retired when he was 45 now 54.
I found that beach a couple of times trying to find Cosy Beach..I never went down there as it is not very disable friendly getting down there.
I love those these charts 😍. I do charts for my living and I find this just makes it so clear so well done 👏. Condo looked really nice I'll have to look back where it was I missed the address. That's a really nice pool man. Another nice lady showing us around 😜. Can't we just date these and not pay any bar fines 😅. That's a great gym 😲. OMG a sauna. And a steam room too 🤯🇹🇭🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺
If you get here a little earlier in life it gets even cheaper. We have a 4 bed/4 bath house in north Pattaya already paid off and a new truck, paid off. We also have some property and a 20 rai farm in P-lok, also paid off. When I retire I will be able to live on practically no money at all. The farm should be all the income I need, which should be about 500USD a month
Can a foreigner buy property in Thailand ?
@@TheRickfire You can buy a condo, but no free standing house or farm. My wife owns all the property on paper. We have been together 16 years now with 2 teenage kids, so I am not worried about her running off with it.
Great condo and the gym you showed is a proper top of the line training facility
I paid way less for gym membership here in the states. I was shocked at those prices lol....
Agree. In Denmark it´s typically 1500 baht
@@redpilldenmark5741 1000 baht a month for a good gym in UK
Yeah the gyms in Thailand are very expensive, it’s one area that doesn’t work out cheap at all .
I pay $600 for a year , here in Australia
@@camwells9726 crunch fitness highpoint $390 year base membership , up front !
If your a gym rat like me well worth the price. Good gyms are hard to find. You will save money in the long term as you won’t drink as much, gym keeps you healthy and active.
It's a great series of vids, thanks!
Wow! Thank you for taking the time to show some nicer places. :)
keep in mind that if go that area, for a long term stay a motorcycle is just about mandatory. So consider that in advance. Make sure you get a motorcycle license in your country. It makes insurance and riders actually work. many people get bit in the ass when they find out their insurance policy had fine print about being properly licensed
Do you really think a motorcycle is essential? Walk. Baht bus. Bolt. Are these not enough??
I just love watching these videos and laugh at how many Honda PCX's I see in every video. I'm 55 and own 2 cars but I also have a PCX which I love riding. I would fit in perfectly there lol.
Would be glad if in the overview at the beginning you would also give the numbers in Euros, not only in USD, GBP and AUD.
Thank you very much for your recent videos aimed at prospective retirees.
Great video, look forward to more, a coffee on its way to you.
Thank you very much
Excellent review of Pratumnak area . Please show more of that area if you viewers agree . Thank you very much !! Enjoy ...
You have an audio voice book sound. Late night I listen to you and I pass out keep it up.
Thanks for listening
Thanks for your time bud Brilliant as always
Very Good video - Great information
We don't deserve you diligent efforts and work. Thank you Mate
beautiful design and amenities...great content videoThx
A very informative video.Thank you.
Dear sir,what about bookshops and music(cd and vinyl)shops?Does a woman stay with you a whole day?
GREAT INFORMATION SIR GOD BLESS, HAVE A BEAUTIFUL DAY.
Thank you for this video. One subject I'd like to see you cover - especially for retiring expats - are services older people are going to need - including the rather unpleasant subject of funeral and burial/cremation or having remains sent back to your home country. And how various age-related conditions are handled or treated (strokes, dementia/Alzheimer's, etc.). Much if not all of that does not make for a fun video by any means, but it's material retiring expats should know.
Good point. Also, should someone become a citizen for better care.
@@mattblack9344 - Thai citizenship is very difficult and takes years. You had better know at least enough of the language to sing the Thai National Anthem (not a joke - it’s a requirement!). Maybe Daz can revisit with Darren of Key Visa on this. One benefit of citizenship if you’re a gun guy - citizens can own them. Foreigners cannot.
Hi Daz
More solid advice for long term stayer’s.
Hopefully be in Pattaya in August, would like to catch up for a couple of beers,my shout 👍
Liked the condo next to the 9 hole pitch and put golf course, good pool and gym, reasonable price too 680 NZD and as for the blackboard specials Roast Chicken and desert 9 NZD ! hard to beat ! Can you negotiate these prices at all ? ( condo), just subscribed today, coming for a month in January but not Pattaya maybe next time , cheers !
Great info again Daz, the Pratamnak area is definitely 1 of the nicest and affordable places to live in Pattaya. From looking at your figures as a rough guide I should be able to do this as long as I keep my visits to the Kinaree for a Wednesday lunchtime only that way I can also get a good feed for the day.
Thanks for doing this video, great information. Robert
Great video for condo, prices, gym, advice etc
Excellent information. I would have liked to have seen your estimate for the " GF experience" type relationship for a month. After all, the video is about retiring there. Thanks for your excellent efforts with these type videos
Cool place. You always show realistic places. Any places with tennis courts? Thanks fir the video.
Yes, there is a tennis court in the corner of the small golf course
Damn ..... I can actually afford that as it is .... However ... You got to aim higher because of 2 things: 1) Exchange rate (my danish kroner has gone from 6,1 baht pr. krone to now 4,8 baht pr. krone in 11 years) and 2) inflation rate. If your money isn't increasing at least with a percentage similar to the inflation rate, then your money is getting less and less worth. (Sorry for the babbling - this is my field of work and I tend to be overly careful) ... But nevertheless thanks for yet another great video with great info from the grounds :) - but very surprised about gym prices - thats more than here in Denmark!
Agree, never stop working until you have enough to guarantee the lifestyle you want for the rest of your life.
Excellent video. Thanks
Nice view and facilities , swimming , bike in gym , walking. Yes , all very good .
I know that beach, went there a couple of times the last time I was in Pattaya just prior to the pandemic. I actually stayed in the Asia Pattaya hotel the very first time I came to Pattaya & first ever holiday in Thailand back in 1995 so used that beach regularly when I was a guest at the hotel.
To start nice video and very informative. The condo you showed is more of a motel room than a condo here in the states are there larger places to rent at a decent price or even maybe decent homes to rent that want break the bank if looking to live there full time?
i can confirm Here Chai is a very good place to eat. The gym is a tad pricey. I pay £21 pcm here in the uk. 24 hr access, all classes, all you can eat toilet paper.
Great content.
Ill add an annual dentist check-up maybe.
You are the best my friend … feel like I know and I’ve never seen your face. Your videos are spot on. See you in July … 👍🏾
Nice condo 👍, great value with a lovely secluded beach.
Thanks more great info, I am on holiday in Pattaya at the moment, I was actually at beach bum bar on Monday visiting a mate who was staying in room there and I can’t believe it but I am briefly in you video😂 😂 I am sat on the left in red tee shirt having a beer with 2 friends, sorry I never spotted you 😅😂👍
Now you're a movie star LOL
Hey! Guess where I'm staying the whole of July?? Yes, The One condo. Thanks for the vid it's been very helpful!!
Also found out there isnt any wi fi in the room which may be an issue for some, Thank-you Daz
This area looks just like where I would want to live,great video
Regarding health insurance, the cheapest i can find, with sufficient limits is $120 usd per month, i am 62. Its called patriot International or something similar. Maybe you can explore further in the future. perhaps make some suggestions. Thanks
Wow beautiful and very informative video! I spend or rather wasted about 3K/mo here in Toronto WITHOUT leaving the house, not eating out. That lifestyle you mentioned looks fun for half the cost in here? Sign me up! Heading there this summer! Can't wait!
Hi daz I revisited this video since I will be in pattaya and want to look at a few condos in phra thamnak area. I remember you also spoke with some real estate folks. Did you find them reliable. Thank you for the very informative video
What an amazing video! And greatly appreciate the information.
Hola Daz. Thank You for all this Information
That was one of the better condos at that price I've seen. Question: what was behind the doors at the right on the balcony?
Air-con units
Just thought I'd mention that having a pool and gym as part of the monthly rental is something I've realised you'd probably pay for anyway, if living in a cheaper place, i.e. occasional pool visits and gym membership. Depends on the facilities though. Anyone know what a standard gym membership costs per month? I'd assume 1-2k baht.
Sorry: I commented prior to the gym sequence.
A great video m8…hope to be out there soon 👍🏻
Been to that beach many times... Thanks for a tour of the muscle factory. If I do move to the hill, it will be handy... currently considering it... Seen the Wolfhound many times (and mgt/owner changed recently) and have been wanting to try their ribs for the longest time... Having been forced to look at insurance for ThaiPass, what a mine field! (still kinda lost)... Wondering if you have done a review of the Nordic places (as they take up soo much of the land around the Soi 4-6 area on the hill, but I've heard a lot of bad news about them (and something about the mgt having done a runner (again))...
Great video,always very informative. Can you add in cost to buy or rent scooter for those looking to come lobg term
Brand new Honda PCX is about 100,000 Thai baht
Or renting is about 3000 baht per month
Nice gym, but the fees are more than many USA gyms with more equipment.
It looks bigger than it is, because of the mirrors.
Did she say the classes WERE included or NOT included?
Thank you. I am looking to be away from loud vehicles. I will look at this neighborhood.
Got a buddy who did this for a few years on his army pension, cheap beer, girls and wifi hah all you need I guess. Then went bumming around the world on a sailboat for a decade, now he's married no a korean lady and living on jeju. Yea i'm pretty jelly hah shes sooo pretty too.
Hello Daz, Yet another great video. You mentioned having an Agent to help with the high cost and paperwork of retirement Visa's. Can you recommend an Agent or maybe even do a video on how to obtain an Agent and what they charge. Thank you so much
This is the link to Darren's Key Visa website, highly recommended, tell him I sent you.
www.keyvisathailand.com/
@@everythingPattaya Thank you for such a quick reply. This why your channel is such a success.
Very good good information great video
Thanks for the quality content. I'm 47, currently retired in the Philippines just because the visa is so easy - but I'm still weighing up which Health insurance to buy. My quotes are generally between £130 to £250 GBP per month - age 47 in good health with no pre-existing conditions. So in Thai Baht that's between 5,600 and 10,800 per month. That's with Cigna and the other well known companies. You've listed 2000 baht / £48 in your chart - which is much lower than I'm seeing? I guess for us Brits with UK addresses and bank accounts and tax payers, we would fly home for anything like Cancer etc - so my main concern is accident and emergency cover - especially motorcycle accidents. If anyone has any good cover options/prices they can share to help me? Thanks all!
If you plan on flying back here for cancer treatment, you'll die here unless your in BUPA. The waiting list is too long for any possible chance of survival.
What visa under 50?
You can't get an OA Retirement?
Could you consider a video on food markets and also ex Pat shops .. cheers
Video and info outstanding as always .enjoyed watching as usual .more and more ideas for when I visit in the future .thanks again .
Always stay in Pratamnak.Got all i need there.Nice bars e.g The Irish Wolfhound,Doms Pizza Restaurant and of course The Kinnaree Gents Club.Wohoo.