Thank you for following me. I I’m loving my time in Cambodia 🇰🇭 The people are amazing I’m so happy to be able to call it home even if it’s only for a while. 🥰
Thank you so very much. I am really enjoying my time in Cambodia 🇰🇭 but also looking forward to new adventures later in the year 😁 hopefully you will also enjoy watching wherever I land next. 😊
You are an absolute inspiration to us all. We don’t know you but feel so proud of you for chasing your dreams! Well done to you and for anyone reading this.. no matter what you dream is.. chase it, we all got this💪🏼
@@JenksandMatilda thank you 🙏 so much. I was not going to publish this video as it was so personal to me. I am completely overwhelmed by the response that I have had. It’s so scary putting yourself out there. Thanks again for your kind words it means so much to me. 🥰
@ couldn’t agree more with it being hard to put yourself out there. It took us a long time to finally set our TH-cam channel up. My biggest regret in the start is caring too much what people think. The internet is scary and not always the kindest of places but I’ve found it’s always a place the good outweighs the bad. So pleased for you. Looking forward to your adventures and following your journey ❤️
@@JenksandMatilda thanks so much 🙏 yes there are definitely a few strange comments that have come up!!! Like the person that said looks like you found your weight again (to me)!!!! A few years ago I probably would not of handled that well, now I just laugh. As I was so sad when I lost all the weight I never want to go back to that. I just thanked the person for their comment and wished them a good day. Maybe secretly hoping they’re knicker elastic brakes on the tube on their way home !!!! 🤣🤣🤣 thanks again for watching and your support hugs 🤗
I have visited Thailan quite a few times over the years. Before Covid I asked my sister to come with me and then we would go to Cambodia to visit Ankor Wat. I really liked the vibe of Siem Reap! Yes, I binged watched Paddy Doyle's youtube channel during Covid... It made me feel connected to Thailand and my friends there. So glad you made the move to Siem Reap!! The cost of living in the U.K. and the U.S. is ridiculous.....and just the overall stress. Hoping to move to Thailand this coming year..... (I still have such fond memories and feelings of Siem Reap.......) Thanks for sharing your story!
@@JohannaVanWinkle thank you 🙏 I still have the travel bug so will definitely be visiting some other countries this year but Cambodia 🇰🇭 Siem Reap will always have my heart ❤️
I am so proud of your journey thus far and appreciate your candor. The way you expressed your vulnerability, provides strength and optimism for me. Good luck, be safe, and continue to create a great future. ❤
You’ve endeared yourself to all of us. Your an honest open person The spirit called you and you took action. You now have freedom to recharge your batteries. You deserve that.
Well done you. Didn't realise what you went through to get to get to this point of nan with a backpack. All the very best wishes for the future. Safe travels. Thank for sharing....
Yes it's certainly been an adventure in more ways than one! It was hard to say goodbye to my salon that I had worked so hard to build but I knew if I didn't make changes I would have had to have operations on my hands as well as losing my salon. So I took a big long deep breath and jumped, not quite sure where or how I would land!!!!
What an inspirational story! Sometimes the fear of carrying on the same outweighs the fear of change. Im glad you are sharing your story and showing there are different ways to live and be happy. From a fellow traveler x
Thank you so very much I almost did not post this video. I was up late last night worrying about it wondering if anyone would be interested in hearing any of it? I have had so many people reach out already Im humbled by the response i have had. 🥰
Thanks for sharing Sonja! I could see it was difficult. Isn’t it just awful that all the “growing” comes from the dark places? You’ve grown and also blossomed!👏🏼👏🏼👊🏼
Yes I think everyone goes through struggles in life. I remember finishing my shift behind the bar at 1:30am then heading out for my next job at 5am for 2 years!!! that was so hard, but I made some great friends in that time as we.
Hi Sonja just came across your channel and thought how refreshing seeing a woman traveller in asia rather than most vlogs that are men. Anyway the vlogs are informative and inspiring for people who are thinking of travelling in there latter year's. Much love from Essex
@@DM-ke9mt hey 👋 hi how’s it going. Thanks for your lovely message. I had not thought of that but yes most videos are from guys 🥴🙄🤪 if you are near Billericay pop into the Chequers and the Railway pubs on the hi street and say hi 👋 from me. !!!! 🤗
Glad to hear you never regretted your decision about changing your life. Same on my side. I once was a multi millionaire business owner, until I decided, like you, that it was time to see the world. A was 36 at the the time. And, caramba...what a good decision it was. Actually, living in the same town as you...but starts to feel, after over 1 year, that it maybe time to get back on the road... Wishing you, where ever the wind gonna blow you, to "just" enjoy your time !
Love these types of videos where people find such happiness through chasing a big scary dream. I'm giving myself two more years before I retire and intend to make the most of it thereafter.
Hi Sonje, i recently spent about 10 days in siem reap and a few days in phnom penh. I'm certainly with you about the khmer people. I've spent considerable time in Bali and Thailand and whilst there are plenty of great people in both those places, the khmer people are really something special. So much so, I'm seriously considering moving to SR for an extended period of time. Best wishes for the new year, Noel.
Hi Sonya just found your Channel with my love of travel including Thailand.. 2023 wrapped up work at 59 due to stress and travelled to Thailand for 4 months ,returned late Aug the day after landing had terrible stomach cramps...fast forward 16 months.Cancer,operations,chemo and now pallative care..Enjoy your travels and many people get inspiration from watching you..Take care and be safe...
OMG you have certainly been through it. How are you doing now? A very dear friend of mine is in the middle of her chemotherapy treatments now. She says my videos bring her happiness watching my adventures. I pray 2025 is a good year for you both filled with love peace and happiness.
@nanwithabackpack Thanks Sonya for reply,i got a scan today because of pains but all they shall say is take pain killers jaha. I enjoy videos of travellers like yourself and remembering the travel/flights which i love...i am catching up on your videos and you are more advanced in travelling than i ever was...Have a good weekend...😎
Thanks so much for sharing Sonja! It looks and sounds like you are having a great time living in Cambodia! Sadly It has become so expensive in the UK over the past 4 years!
Love that you just went for it rather than sitting there all scared. And yes, things that scare us the most might turn out to be the best things you've ever done. And to be honest, it's true most of the time. At least in my own experience.
Go Girl, so happy to see you follow that lightbulb. I retired 4 years ago in Sydney put all my stuff in storage to go travel for 12mths, here I am 4 years later and still meandering through Europe and Asia, it’s way cheaper than being holed up in the same place 365 days a year. I’m heading back to Sydney now in 3 weeks for a year to do a farewell lap sell all my stuff and divide my time between Asia and Spain for as long as my health permits. I urge everyone to follow their dreams, don’t dwell.✈️
@michaelmarmion648 hey Micheal, we are doing the same thing. Get your stuff out of storage and sell it. If you are paying $50 a week to store it, then that's $2500 per year. You've spent $10k to store stuff that you probably won't use again! Just saying. 🍻👍
But what about personal relationships, family back home, grandchildren, and how are you able to stay in Cambodia permanently? Speaking as someone who has traveled throughout Cambodia.
I liked your video i regularly watch TH-cam video. I proud of you for being up front with your life style struggles in England. I proud of you for Bitting the bullet and coming to Cambodia. I will be making the move to Cambodia at the end of this year as i will retire to Kampot. Ill continue to watch your videos in the future look after yourself.
Good for you, embracing the fear of the unknown. I'm in a very similar situation in Australia. I'm 58 , no family nor children and a full-time vanner. I'm binge watching all sorts of ideas. I'm coming to Cambodia on Feb 22nd for a one month look around. Best of luck and well wishes. 😊
I wish I had done van life in New Zealand and Australia. They are such beautiful countries. If it was not so expensive I would definitely go back. Who knows might bump into you in Cambodia. 🇰🇭
@nanwithabackpack yes renting a van would be the biggest expense. I've free camped for 4yrs now. No camp fees , power or water bill. You can eat here for $20 a day. Cambodia looks good but I don't think I could leave my surf beaches and the river with great fishing. I'll keep travelling while I'm able bodied. I'll keep a look out for you in SR. Cheers 🍻
Hi Sonja, I have just discovered your channel. Well done for taking the plunge. We are similar ages, and although I still work, I have a channel, because I think its great to share and inspire people of a certain age ( over 45 yrs mainly ) to get out there and show you can do it and have advenutres no matter what age you are, not just for the 18-30's anymore. thank you for sharing your experiences and look forward to watching more of your vlogs. Happy New Year too
Happy New Year to you too, Angela. Yes, I find it sad how many people that finds themselves on their own through divorce or the loss of a partner and then don’t feel able to travel any longer. I hope I can encourage others to travel solo over the age of 45. 🥰
Thank you for this information. I am watching whilst eating breakfast here in cold Bristol. Makes one think of living a different life on the other side of the world is quite a good idea , with the way things are here . More power to you Sonja . I will subscribe 😊
Thank you very much! Yes it took me ages, I am all self taught and I keep forgetting bits! I do enjoy the process seeing it go from nothing then suddenly all coming together. 😁
My first visit to you channel & I am subscribed. Giving me food for thought. I have had enough of the UK. I may go & travel like yourself. Good on you.
Thank you 🙏 Sonja, that was very brave of you, but just like those 2 TH-camrs inspired you. You will also be inspiring a lot of people out there especially women ❤
Oh wow thank you 🙏 I have to say I have been stopped and recognised quite a few times now. It’s lovely but does feel a little strange because I’m just me. ☺️
What a great beginning road map for the budding expat. I left America just as you left the UK, not knowing what I wanted. I only knew things could be better. After years of wandering, I ended up a mere couple of hundred kilometers away from Siem Reap in Sisaket, Thailand. You made a brilliant decision. Plus, Cambodia has a super easy retirement visa. My question has always been, "Why isn't everyone doing it?"
Thank you for this. I am so fed up in BrexSHIT Britain. I have lived in Asia in the past (for 15 years) but never Cambodia .... your video is an inspiration to get back travelling and enjoy life again.
hugs dear friend...so remember that day when you got the phone call from your landord......so glad I met you......I am that invisible person who is in your backpack....on your challenges.....yep every episode of your adventures you are embarking on.......am there with you.....thank you for sharing your adventures. on this platform.....wow now I am remember Covid......something you produced for my pup still loves it to bits.....ok including you giving me, my hair color in a pot......so please still continue allowing me to follow your adventures...love you and thank you again....hugs
Hi Sonja, just spotted your video, I too am looking at Cambodia now. I have a few years on you and life has been extremely hard on me, lost daughters 1 to Cancer, partners whose agenda objectives were my houses and assets. Tryed to start a new life in Ukraine, bought a property in order to secure a permanent visa with my fiancee £160,000 now all gone, she has decided to live with her son in America, thanks very much. Thats now £600,000 in total losing other property in Divorce. I divorced THEM. I admire your strength and determination, in my experience you are like myself a very kind caring person genuinely, we seem to get the sh*t end of the stick in life, so unfair. All the best Eddie.
@@edwardgriffiths3334 Thank you so much for sharing your story. I’m truly sorry to hear about the loss of your daughter - that’s a pain no one should ever have to endure. It sounds like life has thrown some incredibly tough challenges your way. I’ve found Cambodia to be a beautiful and friendly place. Wishing you all the best, may your future bring you peace and happiness
Thanks Sonja, I appreciate your heartfelt response, Deborah was just 4 years old (brain tumour) her mother decided to turn my other 3 daughters against me, not uncommon I know other guys who have experienced this also. So bloody unfair and spiteful. Personally I am not sexist or racist, we are all human beings who should all behave in accordance with the same values. The finest, kindest and most caring human being I have ever known was a WOMAN, my mother. My strength comes from her.
@eddie - sorry abt the loss of your daughter & for the challenges that life sent your way. Since you're from the UK, I assume that you'll receive a state pension (or receiving one already). For Cambodia & TH, UK pensions are not indexed. In SE Asia, only PH has this agreement with the UK. Pls see my longer post to Sonia abt this (if state pension matters to you). Good luck in your travel & relocation plans.
I have just discovered and love your videos…….i dream of something similar having travelled a lot in SE Asia when I was younger ( I’m now 64, going on 25). You are an eternal optimist, it seems, but how do you find your life socially being much older than most of the other europeans around you? Do you get lonely?
@jamesbenjamin8078 hi, I was notified by your comment bcos you posted in a thread. If you're from the UK, if you live in a non-indexed country your UK state pension will be frozen. In SE Asia, only PH 🇵🇭 is indexed for UK pensions. Other indexed countries are in the Caribbean & the EU. If that matters to you, see my longer (individual) post to Sonia. Good luck!
This video was the closest I have done to that!!! I have a month allowance savings a small amount from TH-cam, which hopefully one day will grow!!!! I am also trying to grow as an online teacher but finding it a very slow process. So right now it’s mainly my allowance savings and TH-cam videos. $900 to $1,000 a month!
Thank you for sharing this intimate info. I’m glad you’re living a life not as stressful as back here in the UK. The weather now is miserable, tube is smelly and people being stuck like sardines in the mornings..that’s my life in the moment. Enjoy your time in Siem Reap ,you deserve it! 🥂🎉
Well done for taking the leap after all your difficult time, what an adventure over these past 2 years and great memories (up and downs thrown in of course) The alternative would be pretty miserable with drowning in UK bills, i neednt go on! Have a great 2025! You seem so at home with Asia travel now after the first Bali trip, which is probably harder than it looks. 🙂
See you in 4 years, counting the days that I’ll spend my 64th Birthday in Siem Reap. TH-cam has some wonderful content but only a few focus on retirement issues.. keep up the wonderful information videos especially as things like Visas and the such may change 👏👏👏 Micky
Your Fantastic & inspiring.... I'm Leaving New Zealand for Malaysia residency approved.. will definately travel around SE Asia, might pop in to Siem Reap❤
Hello Sonia, I think you are finally finding the boots of your feet ? Cambodia is the one country in SoutheastAsia where the visas for foreigners are cheap and as a foreigner you can buy property in Cambodia as well…if you’re looking for something like buying a house or condo. In Cambodia it’s still cheaper and you can rent a house like Airbnb.
That’s good to know but unfortunately my budget would not stretch to buying a house. Yes I love Cambodia 🇰🇭 but I also still have a list of amazing places I still want to visit. I am still getting over a cold moment, but as soon as I have made a firm decision, I will let everyone know where I am off to next. I do know I will return to Cambodia. 🇰🇭
Hi Thanks for such an honest video, hope you feel a bit better now - just wondered if you want anything from the UK - I am in SR for 6 nights so I can go to a couple of wildlife & elephant sanctuaries too - I feel so much more confident getting in touch with you! I can't wait!
Thank you so very much for the offer but my mum and dad are heading out soon and are bringing me some bits. Yes I'm feeling much better now thankfully it was only a 24hr thing 🙏🏽 I'm sure you will love it here. 🥰
Stumbled across this video. A very informative and honest account of what landed you in Siem Reap. Well you look happy and healthier than your pictures. Good on you. May i ask what made you choose Cambodia??
It was definitely the people. They are the kindest friendliest happiest people I’ve met so far on my travels. Thank thank you so much for your kind words 🙏
I'm a Cambodian living in the UK since 1986. In my opinion, health care is the main concern if you're living in Cambodia. You may have to go to a neighbouring countries like Thailand, Singapore or Vietnam for treatment if your have major issues with your health. The rest are just like you said in your video, cheap and fresh. Good luck !
@TSUK213 NHS doesn't work, you pay national insurance contributions thinking you are covered and if it comes when you need help you must go privately. It's my personal experiences few times including operations that should have been done by nhs I had to go privately. I don't see NHS as positive in the UK but rather money taking institutions that doesn't do what we are paying for. There are insurance companies that cover almost everything including cancer treatments and they are cheaper than what average person pays in national insurance contributions.
Hello and thank you for sharing this video! I was a hairdresser for 11 yrs, once upon a time, long ago. I'm trying to get the gumption together to make a move overseas to get out of the US, to live happily on my retirement. I'll be going it alone and am a senior, so it is a big decision. I'll be watching your videos for inspiration!!
@@24Alisonall hi lovely to have you following. Hairdressing is so hard on your body and hands after many years. I was struggling so much towards the end. I can honestly say you won’t regret it. If you do decide it’s for you please consider visiting Cambodia 🇰🇭 the people are truly amazing and so kind and welcoming. 🥰
Hey Sonja, I was in Cambodia back in June (my second visit) the only frustrating thing i found was the use of the US Dollar and always having to be in perfect condition. Apart from that a fab country this time did Phnom Penn, Kampot and Koh Rong Island - all special places in their own way. Think a lot more people are now looking at Cambodia over say Thailand because at the moment it is a little cheaper. Keep doing what you are doing girl i am sure you have inspired many people to give it a go. Happy New Year
Thank you so much for your kind words. Yes, when I arrived, the perfect condition of the dollars was definitely a thing. Thankfully, now that rule has been lifted. They are definitely not as strict anymore. 🥰
I left England almost one year ago and now live in Da Nang, Vietnam. I visited Siem Reap again last year with my sister and I really liked the vibe, we stayed at the Sakaban hotel. I am considering returning to Siem Reap for maybe 3-6 months. What are the apartment prices like?
@@shaunpierce4174 they range from $200-$600 per month yes you can pay less if you live out in the countryside and you can also pay more. But I would say for $300-$350 per month you can get a lovely apartment with a swimming pool. I love Da Nang 🥰
To be honest I have been happy well apart from the odd emotional meltdown on my part since I left the uk!!! When I phone family and friends the first thing that strikes me is how sad they all look. Whether it’s to do with the economy, the weather the price of things. It’s so sad to see. It would be lovely to hear one of my friends really upbeat about something from Home. 🥴😢😬
Hello Sonja. Yes, it's never an easy road is it? I utilized the services of IPS for apartment hunting, as I believe you did, and I am now settled in nicely here in Wat Bo. Nice efficiency apartment, $200 US per month, includes internet. I just got my 1st electric bill, $17. $17! For the month of December. To be fair, I haven't used the aircon yet, haven't needed to. Private balcony allows my nasty cigar habit, without bothering anyone. So, in summary, I'd like to thank you for being at least partially contributory in my decision to come here. So far, so good, especially considering that back home the high temp will barely touch the freezing point this week.
Hi Mr Damian Thank you for your lovely message. So glad to hear you found IPS and they helped you find somewhere to live. Siem Reap is such a peaceful beautiful place. Yes I has been snowing in the UK the last day or so.
Hello Nan, I'm not surprised by your stats having lived in S.E. Asia for the last 15 years. I only looked last night on Google for flights to Seam Reap and tonight your video pops up! I would suggest to anyone leaving their homeland, to maintained a postal address, bank account and pay voluntary NI contributions (or equivalent) to the State Pension. I have no plans to ever return to that little island. Thailand has 800 islands better than the UK. I live in Bangkok. Best wishes, David.
Interesting comparison. I have been back in the UK for the last year and I am leaving in July this year back to China. I am shocked how much everything costs in UK and how everything is expensive. I just drove across Europe, France & Spain and that does not seem cheap anymore either. Speaking to a French Airbnb host he said much the same about constantly being taxed to the hilt. I am looking forward to getting back to SE Asia! nice video. Thanks Rich
Great to find your channel. Enjoyed the breakdown of expenses. Good insights and similar to what I have found in Vietnam and in my new Thailand home. Certainly nice to have brought my energy costs down from £250/£300 a month in the UK for heating to max £25 a month for air con 2 bedroom house in Thailand! (#ripoffbritain)
Thanks for watching! I have not turned my AC on since I arrived. Although I expect that might change as things warm up again, heading into April. I definitely prefer Asia over UK.
I do admire your ability to live for day and appear not worried about your future as l have always been just too worried about how would l afford to live in my retirement with no state pension. Nice place l have visited Siem Reap and done the temples as part of my cycle journey through the country
I unfortunately have lost some very dear friends who, never had the chance to experience other places and cultures. My outlook is definitely one of live for today as tomorrow is not a given. ☺️ Yes I am really enjoying Siem Reap 🥰 I am so lucky to have this opportunity. X
I love the climate. April is extremely hot but right now it is beautiful. Oh, you are right. I did forget to add the Visa costs. Thank you for pointing that out. I believe the Visa is around $300 a year give or take.
To get the ABA bank account you need a 6/12 month visa and a rental agreement. I transfer my money from my uk bank account to a wise account where I transfer the UK pounds into US dollars. From there I send it to my ABA bank account. The first time it took three days the following occasions has only taken 24 hours for the money to be transferred over. It cost about $12 to transfer the money from Wise to ABA. Hope this helps.
@@jnsa9454 I believe so, although thankfully I have not had to put it to the test. My policy has gone up this year to £123 per month. But looking at different companies, they do seem like the best. It’s really hard to find someone that will ensure for longer than a 4 - 6 month period without going home.
@@jnsa9454hi, I know of 2 vloggers who filed claims with Safety Wing. Both had successful stories, although one had to pay first then reimburse later. (He had just bought the insurance then was hospitalised a few days later). The other one had been on Safety Wing for many months & his hospital stay (hernia surgery + recuperation) was fully paid for by the insurance. It may vary with the country/ hospital, though. Some smaller hospitals don't accept the insurance upon admittance to the hospital (they don't have the capacity/ don't want to do the paperwork). You may have to pay out of pocket then claim reimbursement.
Hi first vlog ive seen of you ....ive been to Cambodia several times over the years great place n people. What do you to keep your income coming in tho to sustain your lifestyle. Kind regards
I have a monthly allowance savings and get a small amount from my videos, hopefully as my channel grows in time that will become more. I am also building up teaching english online but its very slow to build right now a lot of platforms are not actively hiring.
Hi Sonia. Thanks for sharing your "origins" story. It's always nice to know the background of the vlogger. Btw is your 3-month lease up? Do you plan to extend it or move to another city/ country. Congrats on 3k subs! Btw, since you're from the UK, I assume that you'll receive a state pension in 10 years or so. For Cambodia (or TH, VN, Indonesia), the UK pensions are not indexed. You won't get the yearly increase in pension if you stay in those countries. In SE Asia, only PH 🇵🇭 has that agreement w/ the UK. I've a friend who's planning to retire in PH due to this reason (indexed pension). You may want to check out PH just in case. If you do, I suggest the cities of Baguio (mountain area & near San Juan, La Union beaches), Cebu, Dumaguete, Bacolod, Iloilo & Roxas. In Dumaguete, there are lots of retired expats (mostly men). It's not a place I would choose (it's been gentrified), but you can check it out for yourself. Another option is to stay/ retire in a non-indexed country like Cambodia. Then after 4 or 5 yrs, go to a pension-indexed country (like PH, Romania or the UK!) and stay there for >6 months. You'll get the pension increase, as well as the difference in pension for the previous years. Then when you leave that country, pension gets frozen again. Rinse & repeat every 4 or 5 yrs. I don't know the viability or legality of this (heard this from another vlogger), so do your research. Good luck, safe travels and happy new year! 🎉🍾🥂
Oh thank you so very much for the information. I have all my family and friends in the UK so I do like to head back for cuddles with my grandchildren and children. So if I do decide to stay in Cambodia 🇰🇭 I will definitely be adding trips back into my budget and calendar. Thanks again for the information though it’s greatly appreciated 🥰
@nanwithabackpack you're welcome! The vlogger said (he's TH-based) that if you live in a non-indexed country like TH or Cambodia, he suggested to do the trip (to an indexed country or the UK) every 4 or 5 yrs. By then, the "back pay" you'll get from the difference in pension will pay off the airfare & possibly your stay in PH, Romania or other low-cost indexed country. Safe travels & happy vlogging!
I’m sure it would , but I don’t have that. For the last year I’ve just had safety wing health insurance. As I said throughout the video, this is my personal experience for now and I expect yours will be different. I’m here on a 6 month visa. So for now it’s home and I am loving every single second of my time here. If I was to make the move permanently I expect things would look different. But for now it works for me. What health insurance company do you use or recommend in Cambodia 🇰🇭 and while long term travelling to different countries? I would be very interested to hear all about it from someone who knows more. 🙏 Thanks for your comments. 😃
@@nanwithabackpack you may want to check the latest Cost of Living vid of "For Riel" channel. They also live in SR and in that vid, they mentioned their insurance company. I know of 2 vloggers who've used SafetyWing. One was accepted outright (bigger hospital in capital city) - he didn't pay anything & insurance covered all (hernia surgery + hospital stay). Another vlogger, he just bought the insurance then a few days after he was hospitalised due to covid. He was in a smaller hospital, smaller city. He had to pay out of pocket (at first) then file for reimbursement. He was reimbursed. I think for foreign insurances (not based in the country you're in), coverage could be hit or miss. It depends if the hospital has the capacity to do the paperwork (and they'll accept your insurance outright). If the hospital is smaller, sometimes they don't/ won't accept your foreign insurance. You'll have to pay first then reimburse later. Buyer beware...
I have heard nothing but good things so far from safety wing, I'm just glad I have not had to put them to the test!!!!! It does make me cross when you have been with them for a year and nothing has changed and no claims and the price increases so much. But I suppose that's like not fair sometimes!!!!!!
Hello Sonia (did I spell your name right?). I'm thinking of renting my house out and going travelling. I travelled South East Asia in 1992. Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia. Best year of my life. I have people close to me who I trust very much and they are not very positive about my intentions to travel, "the house will get wrecked" that sort of thing. I have recently discovered your channel and you are very inspiring. I would be extremely grateful if you could pass on some 'advice'.
@@martindoyle5355 hi it’s Sonja with a j !!!! I was renting my flat but if I had a house I would have definitely looked into rented it out. I met a lady last year who rented her house out for 12 months while traveling. She from what I heard had a good experience with it. It’s a difficult situation and one I am afraid only you can answer. I would definitely look into it and ask lots of questions. I think you can get a company to organise it all for you. Although obviously they will take a cut from the rent. I’m sorry I couldn’t be of much help with this. I wish you luck with your plans and hope you get to head out to Asia again soon. Thanks for your message. 🥰🇰🇭
I visited Siem Reap some time ago and found the people very friendly polite and respectfull but a poor country . I also at the same time visited Vietnam but much prefer Siem Reap. It would be a great place to live with internal Asian flights to other countries if you need medical issues . I think we all need a sea change later in our life it brings adventure and accept and embrace change good luck everyone if you go on that journey.
im 41 and move out of my house tomorrow in to a van, with the aim to save save save and save some more and then jump off to SE asia to live happy ever after.
Great video! Thank you for sharing your story. It is very interesting to see the costs. Well done!
Thanks 🙏
Smashing video. So lovely to see you doing well and also gives us all great ideas for the future. Lovely content x
Thank you 🙏
Hello there! Looks like you are living a happier life in Cambodia. Thank you for sharing! I will be retiring there soon. I just subscribed ❤
Thank you for following me. I I’m loving my time in Cambodia 🇰🇭 The people are amazing I’m so happy to be able to call it home even if it’s only for a while. 🥰
Love your contents so much about Cambodia 🇰🇭 ❤
Thank you so very much. I am really enjoying my time in Cambodia 🇰🇭 but also looking forward to new adventures later in the year 😁 hopefully you will also enjoy watching wherever I land next. 😊
I followed you since the beginning. I can see you look more refreshed, happy and at peace.
That’s so sweet thank you 🙏
Thank you so much for sharing ❤️ it is very courageous of you. You are an inspiration to many, and I am so glad that you are now living your dreams.
Thank you 🙏🏽
You are an absolute inspiration to us all. We don’t know you but feel so proud of you for chasing your dreams!
Well done to you and for anyone reading this.. no matter what you dream is.. chase it, we all got this💪🏼
@@JenksandMatilda thank you 🙏 so much. I was not going to publish this video as it was so personal to me. I am completely overwhelmed by the response that I have had. It’s so scary putting yourself out there. Thanks again for your kind words it means so much to me. 🥰
@ couldn’t agree more with it being hard to put yourself out there. It took us a long time to finally set our TH-cam channel up. My biggest regret in the start is caring too much what people think. The internet is scary and not always the kindest of places but I’ve found it’s always a place the good outweighs the bad. So pleased for you. Looking forward to your adventures and following your journey ❤️
@@JenksandMatilda thanks so much 🙏 yes there are definitely a few strange comments that have come up!!! Like the person that said looks like you found your weight again (to me)!!!! A few years ago I probably would not of handled that well, now I just laugh. As I was so sad when I lost all the weight I never want to go back to that. I just thanked the person for their comment and wished them a good day. Maybe secretly hoping they’re knicker elastic brakes on the tube on their way home !!!! 🤣🤣🤣 thanks again for watching and your support hugs 🤗
I have visited Thailan quite a few times over the years. Before Covid I asked my sister to come with me and then we would go to Cambodia to visit Ankor Wat. I really liked the vibe of Siem Reap! Yes, I binged watched Paddy Doyle's youtube channel during Covid... It made me feel connected to Thailand and my friends there. So glad you made the move to Siem Reap!! The cost of living in the U.K. and the U.S. is ridiculous.....and just the overall stress. Hoping to move to Thailand this coming year..... (I still have such fond memories and feelings of Siem Reap.......) Thanks for sharing your story!
@@JohannaVanWinkle thank you 🙏 I still have the travel bug so will definitely be visiting some other countries this year but Cambodia 🇰🇭 Siem Reap will always have my heart ❤️
I am so proud of your journey thus far and appreciate your candor. The way you expressed your vulnerability, provides strength and optimism for me. Good luck, be safe, and continue to create a great future. ❤
@@herculepoirot3825 thank you 🙏
You’ve endeared yourself to all of us.
Your an honest open person
The spirit called you and you took action.
You now have freedom to recharge your batteries.
You deserve that.
@@MarkBennett007 bless you thank you 🙏🤗
Thank you, very inspirational, well done and happy New Year. On Thursday 9th. this week I touch the tarmac in Phnom Penh - good bye England.❤✈
Welcome to Cambodia 🇰🇭 ❤ it’s a truly wonderful country.
Well done you. Didn't realise what you went through to get to get to this point of nan with a backpack.
All the very best wishes for the future. Safe travels. Thank for sharing....
Yes it's certainly been an adventure in more ways than one! It was hard to say goodbye to my salon that I had worked so hard to build but I knew if I didn't make changes I would have had to have operations on my hands as well as losing my salon. So I took a big long deep breath and jumped, not quite sure where or how I would land!!!!
Thanks!
Thank you 🙏 so very much so kind 🥰
Welcome to Cambodia 🇰🇭 you're so kind to Cambodia peoples ❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉
@@longchey1310 Cambodian 🇰🇭 people have welcomed me into their beautiful country and treated me with kindness and respect. 🇰🇭🥰🇰🇭❤️🇰🇭
Cambodia has come a long way and I'm very happy for you for your big move.
Wishing you all the best for your adventures🎉
Thank you so much!! Cambodia 🇰🇭 has been so kind and welcoming to me. 🥰
What an inspirational story! Sometimes the fear of carrying on the same outweighs the fear of change. Im glad you are sharing your story and showing there are different ways to live and be happy. From a fellow traveler x
Thank you so very much I almost did not post this video. I was up late last night worrying about it wondering if anyone would be interested in hearing any of it? I have had so many people reach out already Im humbled by the response i have had. 🥰
@@nanwithabackpackGood you did! See how many views and viewers ❤
Thanks for sharing Sonja! I could see it was difficult. Isn’t it just awful that all the “growing” comes from the dark places? You’ve grown and also blossomed!👏🏼👏🏼👊🏼
Yes I think everyone goes through struggles in life. I remember finishing my shift behind the bar at 1:30am then heading out for my next job at 5am for 2 years!!! that was so hard, but I made some great friends in that time as we.
Hi Sonja just came across your channel and thought how refreshing seeing a woman traveller in asia rather than most vlogs that are men. Anyway the vlogs are informative and inspiring for people who are thinking of travelling in there latter year's. Much love from Essex
@@DM-ke9mt hey 👋 hi how’s it going. Thanks for your lovely message. I had not thought of that but yes most videos are from guys 🥴🙄🤪 if you are near Billericay pop into the Chequers and the Railway pubs on the hi street and say hi 👋 from me. !!!! 🤗
@nanwithabackpack haha so your an essex girl lol I'll defo be watching now, small world . I'm Leigh.😉
@@DM-ke9mt Hi 👋 I was born in Southampton but I lived and worked in Essex for many years. 🥰
@nanwithabackpack Well we adopted you then lol. Keep up your content and stay happy 🤩
Wonderful information. It's always a great video from you.
So nice of you thank you 🙏
Glad to hear you never regretted your decision about changing your life. Same on my side. I once was a multi millionaire business owner, until I decided, like you, that it was time to see the world. A was 36 at the the time. And, caramba...what a good decision it was. Actually, living in the same town as you...but starts to feel, after over 1 year, that it maybe time to get back on the road...
Wishing you, where ever the wind gonna blow you, to "just" enjoy your time !
Bless you thanks 🙏🤗
Love these types of videos where people find such happiness through chasing a big scary dream. I'm giving myself two more years before I retire and intend to make the most of it thereafter.
Thank you 🙏
Hi Sonje, i recently spent about 10 days in siem reap and a few days in phnom penh. I'm certainly with you about the khmer people. I've spent considerable time in Bali and Thailand and whilst there are plenty of great people in both those places, the khmer people are really something special. So much so, I'm seriously considering moving to SR for an extended period of time. Best wishes for the new year, Noel.
@@noelgokel514 yes I felt the same way. From the moment I crossed the border everybody has been so kind and so friendly.
Hi Sonya just found your Channel with my love of travel including Thailand..
2023 wrapped up work at 59 due to stress and travelled to Thailand for 4 months ,returned late Aug the day after landing had terrible stomach cramps...fast forward 16 months.Cancer,operations,chemo and now pallative care..Enjoy your travels and many people get inspiration from watching you..Take care and be safe...
OMG you have certainly been through it. How are you doing now? A very dear friend of mine is in the middle of her chemotherapy treatments now. She says my videos bring her happiness watching my adventures. I pray 2025 is a good year for you both filled with love peace and happiness.
@nanwithabackpack Thanks Sonya for reply,i got a scan today because of pains but all they shall say is take pain killers jaha.
I enjoy videos of travellers like yourself and remembering the travel/flights which i love...i am catching up on your videos and you are more advanced in travelling than i ever was...Have a good weekend...😎
@@Shaun7638 🤗
Great video! We're in Vietnam at the moment & leaving for Siem Reap on 11th January. Cannot wait
Fantastic hope you love it.
Thanks so much for sharing Sonja! It looks and sounds like you are having a great time living in Cambodia!
Sadly It has become so expensive in the UK over the past 4 years!
So true it really is…….
Love that you just went for it rather than sitting there all scared. And yes, things that scare us the most might turn out to be the best things you've ever done. And to be honest, it's true most of the time. At least in my own experience.
@@KarolisZvirgzdas 🥰
Thank You,All the best😃🙏🏽❤️
@@One4theRoadbro 🥰
Go Girl, so happy to see you follow that lightbulb.
I retired 4 years ago in Sydney put all my stuff in storage to go travel for 12mths, here I am 4 years later and still meandering through Europe and Asia, it’s way cheaper than being holed up in the same place 365 days a year.
I’m heading back to Sydney now in 3 weeks for a year to do a farewell lap sell all my stuff and divide my time between Asia and Spain for as long as my health permits.
I urge everyone to follow their dreams, don’t dwell.✈️
@@michaelmarmion648 fantastic thanks for sharing 🥰🙏🤗
@michaelmarmion648 hey Micheal, we are doing the same thing. Get your stuff out of storage and sell it. If you are paying $50 a week to store it, then that's $2500 per year.
You've spent $10k to store stuff that you probably won't use again!
Just saying. 🍻👍
But what about personal relationships, family back home, grandchildren, and how are you able to stay in Cambodia permanently? Speaking as someone who has traveled throughout Cambodia.
WOW! Very inspiring! In Thailand now but thinking about Cambodia! Thank you
Yes I really enjoyed Thailand but for me Cambodia 🇰🇭 feels more like home. The people are the kindest and friendliest I have ever met. 🥰
I liked your video i regularly watch TH-cam video. I proud of you for being up front with your life style struggles in England. I proud of you for Bitting the bullet and coming to Cambodia. I will be making the move to Cambodia at the end of this year as i will retire to Kampot. Ill continue to watch your videos in the future look after yourself.
Thank you 🙏 so very much. Enjoy Kampot it’s beautiful 🥰
Good for you, embracing the fear of the unknown. I'm in a very similar situation in Australia. I'm 58 , no family nor children and a full-time vanner. I'm binge watching all sorts of ideas. I'm coming to Cambodia on Feb 22nd for a one month look around.
Best of luck and well wishes.
😊
I wish I had done van life in New Zealand and Australia. They are such beautiful countries. If it was not so expensive I would definitely go back. Who knows might bump into you in Cambodia. 🇰🇭
@nanwithabackpack yes renting a van would be the biggest expense. I've free camped for 4yrs now. No camp fees , power or water bill. You can eat here for $20 a day. Cambodia looks good but I don't think I could leave my surf beaches and the river with great fishing. I'll keep travelling while I'm able bodied.
I'll keep a look out for you in SR.
Cheers 🍻
@ 😃
Hi Sonja, I have just discovered your channel. Well done for taking the plunge. We are similar ages, and although I still work, I have a channel, because I think its great to share and inspire people of a certain age ( over 45 yrs mainly ) to get out there and show you can do it and have advenutres no matter what age you are, not just for the 18-30's anymore. thank you for sharing your experiences and look forward to watching more of your vlogs. Happy New Year too
Happy New Year to you too, Angela. Yes, I find it sad how many people that finds themselves on their own through divorce or the loss of a partner and then don’t feel able to travel any longer. I hope I can encourage others to travel solo over the age of 45. 🥰
great video . i was in Cambodia last year . Never made it to siam reap . I will be coming there for a few months this year
I’m sure you will love it here. 🥰
Thank you for this information. I am watching whilst eating breakfast here in cold Bristol. Makes one think of living a different life on the other side of the world is quite a good idea , with the way things are here . More power to you Sonja . I will subscribe 😊
Bless you, thank you. 🙏
I like the way you organized and presented your information - its a lot of work to do edited videos - I know. Good Job.
Thank you very much! Yes it took me ages, I am all self taught and I keep forgetting bits! I do enjoy the process seeing it go from nothing then suddenly all coming together. 😁
Very warm welcome to Cambodia 🇰🇭 ❤we're family ❤
@@keokosalhuoth3062 🙏
My first visit to you channel & I am subscribed. Giving me food for thought. I have had enough of the UK. I may go & travel like yourself. Good on you.
🥰🙏🇰🇭
Thank you 🙏 Sonja, that was very brave of you, but just like those 2 TH-camrs inspired you. You will also be inspiring a lot of people out there especially women ❤
Oh wow thank you 🙏 I have to say I have been stopped and recognised quite a few times now. It’s lovely but does feel a little strange because I’m just me. ☺️
Thank you for sharing your story on how you started.I always wondered how you started.
Thank you for your info, it helps people think and see the bigger picture. All the best
Thank you for watching 🥰🇰🇭🤗
Good on you and Congratulations!!
@@1MinuteFlipDoc 🥰
Always enjoy watching your vids.
🥰
What a great beginning road map for the budding expat. I left America just as you left the UK, not knowing what I wanted. I only knew things could be better. After years of wandering, I ended up a mere couple of hundred kilometers away from Siem Reap in Sisaket, Thailand. You made a brilliant decision. Plus, Cambodia has a super easy retirement visa.
My question has always been, "Why isn't everyone doing it?"
Shhh 🤫 don’t tell everyone 😜🤗☺️🤭
Thank you for this. I am so fed up in BrexSHIT Britain. I have lived in Asia in the past (for 15 years) but never Cambodia .... your video is an inspiration to get back travelling and enjoy life again.
🤗🙏🥰
Admire your courage to folliw your dream! Well done👍
Thank you 🙏
hugs dear friend...so remember that day when you got the phone call from your landord......so glad I met you......I am that invisible person who is in your backpack....on your challenges.....yep every episode of your adventures you are embarking on.......am there with you.....thank you for sharing your adventures. on this platform.....wow now I am remember Covid......something you produced for my pup still loves it to bits.....ok including you giving me, my hair color in a pot......so please still continue allowing me to follow your adventures...love you and thank you again....hugs
Love you to Row was great chatting today. Keep strong catch up soon xxxx
Thank u Nan , I enjoyed watching your video .
@@mikediab3882 thanks 🙏
Good for you girl ! Divorce is hard for most people.
Yes 😔
Hi Sonja, just spotted your video, I too am looking at Cambodia now. I have a few years on you and life has been extremely hard on me, lost daughters 1 to Cancer, partners whose agenda objectives were my houses and assets. Tryed to start a new life in Ukraine, bought a property in order to secure a permanent visa with my fiancee £160,000 now all gone, she has decided to live with her son in America, thanks very much. Thats now £600,000 in total losing other property in Divorce. I divorced THEM. I admire your strength and determination, in my experience you are like myself a very kind caring person genuinely, we seem to get the sh*t end of the stick in life, so unfair. All the best Eddie.
@@edwardgriffiths3334
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I’m truly sorry to hear about the loss of your daughter - that’s a pain no one should ever have to endure. It sounds like life has thrown some incredibly tough challenges your way.
I’ve found Cambodia to be a beautiful and friendly place. Wishing you all the best, may your future bring you peace and happiness
Thanks Sonja, I appreciate your heartfelt response, Deborah was just 4 years old (brain tumour) her mother decided to turn my other 3 daughters against me, not uncommon I know other guys who have experienced this also. So bloody unfair and spiteful. Personally I am not sexist or racist, we are all human beings who should all behave in accordance with the same values. The finest, kindest and most caring human being I have ever known was a WOMAN, my mother. My strength comes from her.
@eddie - sorry abt the loss of your daughter & for the challenges that life sent your way. Since you're from the UK, I assume that you'll receive a state pension (or receiving one already). For Cambodia & TH, UK pensions are not indexed. In SE Asia, only PH has this agreement with the UK. Pls see my longer post to Sonia abt this (if state pension matters to you). Good luck in your travel & relocation plans.
I have just discovered and love your videos…….i dream of something similar having travelled a lot in SE Asia when I was younger ( I’m now 64, going on 25). You are an eternal optimist, it seems, but how do you find your life socially being much older than most of the other europeans around you? Do you get lonely?
@jamesbenjamin8078 hi, I was notified by your comment bcos you posted in a thread. If you're from the UK, if you live in a non-indexed country your UK state pension will be frozen. In SE Asia, only PH 🇵🇭 is indexed for UK pensions. Other indexed countries are in the Caribbean & the EU. If that matters to you, see my longer (individual) post to Sonia. Good luck!
Sonja - you inspired me. I watch you! Not Paddy Doyle. Thoroughly enjoyed your journey. I was dreaming, planning and now doing too!
Awww 🥰 thank you 🙏 I am enjoying Siem Reap Cambodia 🇰🇭 very much.
Travel opens up the mind; also makes you young again. People the travel a lot don’t age.
@@lastpreacher9093 that would be awesome ☺️
Thanks for sharing and glad you doing well outside the UK.
Yes I am enjoying life in Cambodia
Sonja. Good on you young lady for getting out of the familiar rut and starting to live your life again.
Thank you 🙏
hi Im new to your channel and am really enjoying your content. I missed the video that mentions how you fund your lifestyle...
This video was the closest I have done to that!!! I have a month allowance savings a small amount from TH-cam, which hopefully one day will grow!!!! I am also trying to grow as an online teacher but finding it a very slow process. So right now it’s mainly my allowance savings and TH-cam videos. $900 to $1,000 a month!
Great video
Well done on your travels 👍🙏😊
@@BlueDingo-j3g thanks 🙏
Very inspiring. Well done to you for escaping the ratrace. Just come back from there. X
Thank you 🙏 I think I might get emotional when it comes time to move.
Thank you for sharing this intimate info. I’m glad you’re living a life not as stressful as back here in the UK. The weather now is miserable, tube is smelly and people being stuck like sardines in the mornings..that’s my life in the moment. Enjoy your time in Siem Reap ,you deserve it! 🥂🎉
Thank you so very much. I hope you manage a trip somewhere soon. ✈️🙏🏽😊
So glad you're enjoying Cambodia!
You've chosen the best area to live in the best country in the world! 🇰🇭 ❤️
I agree beautiful country with amazing people thank you for allowing me to enjoy your country 🥰🇰🇭
@nanwithabackpack I'm a Brit also whose chosen to leave the UK for Cambodia. 😀
I love the people so much I married one 😉
Well done for taking the leap after all your difficult time, what an adventure over these past 2 years and great memories (up and downs thrown in of course) The alternative would be pretty miserable with drowning in UK bills, i neednt go on! Have a great 2025! You seem so at home with Asia travel now after the first Bali trip, which is probably harder than it looks. 🙂
Thank you so much! 😊
See you in 4 years, counting the days that I’ll spend my 64th Birthday in Siem Reap.
TH-cam has some wonderful content but only a few focus on retirement issues.. keep up the wonderful information videos especially as things like Visas and the such may change 👏👏👏 Micky
Thanks 🙏
Your Fantastic & inspiring.... I'm Leaving New Zealand for Malaysia residency approved.. will definately travel around SE Asia, might pop in to Siem Reap❤
Sounds like a good plan 😁
"You're"
@ we make grammar mistakes sometimes my sincere apologies x
@ lol 😂 you and me both!!! 😁
@@MACOO7. "Spelling" , not "grammar". And it's not a mistake. It's ignorance of the correct spelling. LOL
thank you for sharing your so inspiring! x
Thank you I was not sure I should make this video as I was not sure how it would be revived? It's always had to speak from the heart ♥
Hope more people like you come and live in my country ❤
🥰 ☺️🇰🇭🤗
Hello Sonia,
I think you are finally finding the boots of your feet ?
Cambodia is the one country in SoutheastAsia where the visas for foreigners are cheap and as a foreigner you can buy property in Cambodia as well…if you’re looking for something like buying a house or condo. In Cambodia it’s still cheaper and you can rent a house like Airbnb.
That’s good to know but unfortunately my budget would not stretch to buying a house. Yes I love Cambodia 🇰🇭 but I also still have a list of amazing places I still want to visit. I am still getting over a cold moment, but as soon as I have made a firm decision, I will let everyone know where I am off to next. I do know I will return to Cambodia. 🇰🇭
Appreciate your story ,
Thank you 🙏
Hi Thanks for such an honest video, hope you feel a bit better now - just wondered if you want anything from the UK - I am in SR for 6 nights so I can go to a couple of wildlife & elephant sanctuaries too - I feel so much more confident getting in touch with you! I can't wait!
Thank you so very much for the offer but my mum and dad are heading out soon and are bringing me some bits. Yes I'm feeling much better now thankfully it was only a 24hr thing 🙏🏽 I'm sure you will love it here. 🥰
@@nanwithabackpack OK that is fine - so glad you feel better 😘
Your best vid to date👍
Oh wow thank you 🙏 I almost didn’t post it as I was unsure if anyone would be interested!!!
Thank you so very glad you liked it 🥰
Stumbled across this video. A very informative and honest account of what landed you in Siem Reap. Well you look happy and healthier than your pictures. Good on you. May i ask what made you choose Cambodia??
It was definitely the people. They are the kindest friendliest happiest people I’ve met so far on my travels.
Thank thank you so much for your kind words 🙏
Happy new year ❤
Same to you 🥰
I'm a Cambodian living in the UK since 1986.
In my opinion, health care is the main concern if you're living in Cambodia. You may have to go to a neighbouring countries like Thailand, Singapore or Vietnam for treatment if your have major issues with your health. The rest are just like you said in your video, cheap and fresh.
Good luck !
Yes I ❤ it in 🇰🇭
@TSUK213 NHS doesn't work, you pay national insurance contributions thinking you are covered and if it comes when you need help you must go privately. It's my personal experiences few times including operations that should have been done by nhs I had to go privately. I don't see NHS as positive in the UK but rather money taking institutions that doesn't do what we are paying for. There are insurance companies that cover almost everything including cancer treatments and they are cheaper than what average person pays in national insurance contributions.
I've lived in SR for 4 years and for me it's Heaven.
Yes 👍 wonderful
Hello and thank you for sharing this video! I was a hairdresser for 11 yrs, once upon a time, long ago. I'm trying to get the gumption together to make a move overseas to get out of the US, to live happily on my retirement. I'll be going it alone and am a senior, so it is a big decision. I'll be watching your videos for inspiration!!
@@24Alisonall hi lovely to have you following. Hairdressing is so hard on your body and hands after many years. I was struggling so much towards the end. I can honestly say you won’t regret it. If you do decide it’s for you please consider visiting Cambodia 🇰🇭 the people are truly amazing and so kind and welcoming. 🥰
Go to Siem Reap first for a holiday,Vietnam or Thailand and you can see/feel for yourself the places ,then you decide.
Hey Sonja, I was in Cambodia back in June (my second visit) the only frustrating thing i found was the use of the US Dollar and always having to be in perfect condition. Apart from that a fab country this time did Phnom Penn, Kampot and Koh Rong Island - all special places in their own way. Think a lot more people are now looking at Cambodia over say Thailand because at the moment it is a little cheaper. Keep doing what you are doing girl i am sure you have inspired many people to give it a go. Happy New Year
Thank you so much for your kind words. Yes, when I arrived, the perfect condition of the dollars was definitely a thing. Thankfully, now that rule has been lifted. They are definitely not as strict anymore. 🥰
I left England almost one year ago and now live in Da Nang, Vietnam. I visited Siem Reap again last year with my sister and I really liked the vibe, we stayed at the Sakaban hotel. I am considering returning to Siem Reap for maybe 3-6 months. What are the apartment prices like?
@@shaunpierce4174 they range from $200-$600 per month yes you can pay less if you live out in the countryside and you can also pay more. But I would say for $300-$350 per month you can get a lovely apartment with a swimming pool.
I love Da Nang 🥰
I am sad to see what UK has become. It good to see you are happy in other country.
To be honest I have been happy well apart from the odd emotional meltdown on my part since I left the uk!!! When I phone family and friends the first thing that strikes me is how sad they all look. Whether it’s to do with the economy, the weather the price of things. It’s so sad to see. It would be lovely to hear one of my friends really upbeat about something from Home. 🥴😢😬
Wow.. you look stunning. I like your necklace. Beautiful 😍
Thank you 🙏
Hello Sonja. Yes, it's never an easy road is it? I utilized the services of IPS for apartment hunting, as I believe you did, and I am now settled in nicely here in Wat Bo. Nice efficiency apartment, $200 US per month, includes internet. I just got my 1st electric bill, $17. $17! For the month of December. To be fair, I haven't used the aircon yet, haven't needed to. Private balcony allows my nasty cigar habit, without bothering anyone. So, in summary, I'd like to thank you for being at least partially contributory in my decision to come here. So far, so good, especially considering that back home the high temp will barely touch the freezing point this week.
Hi Mr Damian Thank you for your lovely message. So glad to hear you found IPS and they helped you find somewhere to live. Siem Reap is such a peaceful beautiful place. Yes I has been snowing in the UK the last day or so.
200 usd? Sounds amazing
Hello Nan, I'm not surprised by your stats having lived in S.E. Asia for the last 15 years. I only looked last night on Google for flights to Seam Reap and tonight your video pops up! I would suggest to anyone leaving their homeland, to maintained a postal address, bank account and pay voluntary NI contributions (or equivalent) to the State Pension. I have no plans to ever return to that little island. Thailand has 800 islands better than the UK. I live in Bangkok. Best wishes, David.
I do love Bangkok. I did not get it the first few times I visited but now I do. 🥰
Interesting comparison. I have been back in the UK for the last year and I am leaving in July this year back to China. I am shocked how much everything costs in UK and how everything is expensive. I just drove across Europe, France & Spain and that does not seem cheap anymore either. Speaking to a French Airbnb host he said much the same about constantly being taxed to the hilt. I am looking forward to getting back to SE Asia! nice video. Thanks Rich
Thank you 🙏…….. Yes, not only is everything in the UK so expensive but the weather is terrible as well!!! 🥴
@@nanwithabackpack 🤣
Great to find your channel.
Enjoyed the breakdown of expenses.
Good insights and similar to what I have found in Vietnam and in my new Thailand home.
Certainly nice to have brought my energy costs down from £250/£300 a month in the UK for heating to max £25 a month for air con 2 bedroom house in Thailand! (#ripoffbritain)
Thanks for watching! I have not turned my AC on since I arrived. Although I expect that might change as things warm up again, heading into April. I definitely prefer Asia over UK.
I do admire your ability to live for day and appear not worried about your future as l have always been just too worried about how would l afford to live in my retirement with no state pension. Nice place l have visited Siem Reap and done the temples as part of my cycle journey through the country
I unfortunately have lost some very dear friends who, never had the chance to experience other places and cultures. My outlook is definitely one of live for today as tomorrow is not a given. ☺️
Yes I am really enjoying Siem Reap 🥰 I am so lucky to have this opportunity. X
Good job 👍 love it ❤
Thank you 🙏
Brilliant, continue to enjoy. I would love to know how you find the climate + you didn't list any visa charges?
I love the climate. April is extremely hot but right now it is beautiful. Oh, you are right. I did forget to add the Visa costs. Thank you for pointing that out. I believe the Visa is around $300 a year give or take.
Welcome to Cambodia my friend ❤
Thank you 🙏 so very much for welcoming me to your beautiful country. I feel so blessed to be here. Thank you 🙏🥰
@ Happy new year
🥰
Respect to you Sonja .
🥰
Did you not even know anyone when you decided to move there x
@@robinhurst1937 I have been traveling for 2 years just entering my third year of solo travel
@@nanwithabackpack that’s amazing Sonja & brave. What time is it at yours it’s 16.54 at home
how do you transfer money from UK to ABA bank im from UK and want to visit that area.
To get the ABA bank account you need a 6/12 month visa and a rental agreement.
I transfer my money from my uk bank account to a wise account where I transfer the UK pounds into US dollars. From there I send it to my ABA bank account. The first time it took three days the following occasions has only taken 24 hours for the money to be transferred over. It cost about $12 to transfer the money from Wise to ABA. Hope this helps.
how often do you have to do a visa run and what are the costs associated with that?(visa, travel, accommodation ) Thank you
I have been asked that a lot I will start planning a video about it. Thanks for question. You can get a 3 - 6 or 12 month which means no border runs.
Subscribed👍
Thanks 🙏
Wanted to go to the cinema today, £14.99 was the price. Ended up staying at home.
Omg wow so expensive. I’m not sure how anyone could afford that? 😢
@@nanwithabackpackthey cant except cworld do a monthly card even then ...
Odeon do some cheap five pound tickets throughout the week !
New subscriber Great video
Awesome thank you! 🙏🏽
For safety wing, can you use at any hospital for most health needs? Even serious ones?
@@jnsa9454 I believe so, although thankfully I have not had to put it to the test. My policy has gone up this year to £123 per month. But looking at different companies, they do seem like the best. It’s really hard to find someone that will ensure for longer than a 4 - 6 month period without going home.
@nanwithabackpack gotcha! Yes, good that you haven't had to use but of peace of mind that it's there.
@@jnsa9454 yes definitely 💯
@@jnsa9454hi, I know of 2 vloggers who filed claims with Safety Wing. Both had successful stories, although one had to pay first then reimburse later. (He had just bought the insurance then was hospitalised a few days later). The other one had been on Safety Wing for many months & his hospital stay (hernia surgery + recuperation) was fully paid for by the insurance.
It may vary with the country/ hospital, though. Some smaller hospitals don't accept the insurance upon admittance to the hospital (they don't have the capacity/ don't want to do the paperwork). You may have to pay out of pocket then claim reimbursement.
Hi first vlog ive seen of you ....ive been to Cambodia several times over the years great place n people. What do you to keep your income coming in tho to sustain your lifestyle. Kind regards
I have an allowance and savings and a small amount from videos.
Hi good for you 😊 Happy new year 🫡
Thank You 🙏🏽
Just a quick question: how do you support yourself?
I have a monthly allowance savings and get a small amount from my videos, hopefully as my channel grows in time that will become more. I am also building up teaching english online but its very slow to build right now a lot of platforms are not actively hiring.
Hi Sonia. Thanks for sharing your "origins" story. It's always nice to know the background of the vlogger. Btw is your 3-month lease up? Do you plan to extend it or move to another city/ country. Congrats on 3k subs!
Btw, since you're from the UK, I assume that you'll receive a state pension in 10 years or so. For Cambodia (or TH, VN, Indonesia), the UK pensions are not indexed. You won't get the yearly increase in pension if you stay in those countries. In SE Asia, only PH 🇵🇭 has that agreement w/ the UK. I've a friend who's planning to retire in PH due to this reason (indexed pension).
You may want to check out PH just in case. If you do, I suggest the cities of Baguio (mountain area & near San Juan, La Union beaches), Cebu, Dumaguete, Bacolod, Iloilo & Roxas. In Dumaguete, there are lots of retired expats (mostly men). It's not a place I would choose (it's been gentrified), but you can check it out for yourself.
Another option is to stay/ retire in a non-indexed country like Cambodia. Then after 4 or 5 yrs, go to a pension-indexed country (like PH, Romania or the UK!) and stay there for >6 months. You'll get the pension increase, as well as the difference in pension for the previous years. Then when you leave that country, pension gets frozen again. Rinse & repeat every 4 or 5 yrs. I don't know the viability or legality of this (heard this from another vlogger), so do your research.
Good luck, safe travels and happy new year! 🎉🍾🥂
Oh thank you so very much for the information. I have all my family and friends in the UK so I do like to head back for cuddles with my grandchildren and children. So if I do decide to stay in Cambodia 🇰🇭 I will definitely be adding trips back into my budget and calendar.
Thanks again for the information though it’s greatly appreciated 🥰
@nanwithabackpack you're welcome! The vlogger said (he's TH-based) that if you live in a non-indexed country like TH or Cambodia, he suggested to do the trip (to an indexed country or the UK) every 4 or 5 yrs. By then, the "back pay" you'll get from the difference in pension will pay off the airfare & possibly your stay in PH, Romania or other low-cost indexed country. Safe travels & happy vlogging!
You can't compare a $130 health insurance Policy to the NHS, the same cover or be it with many exceptions would cost around $600 a month in Asia
I’m sure it would , but I don’t have that. For the last year I’ve just had safety wing health insurance. As I said throughout the video, this is my personal experience for now and I expect yours will be different. I’m here on a 6 month visa. So for now it’s home and I am loving every single second of my time here. If I was to make the move permanently I expect things would look different. But for now it works for me. What health insurance company do you use or recommend in Cambodia 🇰🇭 and while long term travelling to different countries? I would be very interested to hear all about it from someone who knows more. 🙏 Thanks for your comments. 😃
@@nanwithabackpack you may want to check the latest Cost of Living vid of "For Riel" channel. They also live in SR and in that vid, they mentioned their insurance company. I know of 2 vloggers who've used SafetyWing. One was accepted outright (bigger hospital in capital city) - he didn't pay anything & insurance covered all (hernia surgery + hospital stay).
Another vlogger, he just bought the insurance then a few days after he was hospitalised due to covid. He was in a smaller hospital, smaller city. He had to pay out of pocket (at first) then file for reimbursement. He was reimbursed.
I think for foreign insurances (not based in the country you're in), coverage could be hit or miss. It depends if the hospital has the capacity to do the paperwork (and they'll accept your insurance outright). If the hospital is smaller, sometimes they don't/ won't accept your foreign insurance. You'll have to pay first then reimburse later. Buyer beware...
I have heard nothing but good things so far from safety wing, I'm just glad I have not had to put them to the test!!!!! It does make me cross when you have been with them for a year and nothing has changed and no claims and the price increases so much. But I suppose that's like not fair sometimes!!!!!!
Hello Sonia (did I spell your name right?). I'm thinking of renting my house out and going travelling. I travelled South East Asia in 1992. Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia. Best year of my life. I have people close to me who I trust very much and they are not very positive about my intentions to travel, "the house will get wrecked" that sort of thing. I have recently discovered your channel and you are very inspiring. I would be extremely grateful if you could pass on some 'advice'.
@@martindoyle5355 hi it’s Sonja with a j !!!! I was renting my flat but if I had a house I would have definitely looked into rented it out. I met a lady last year who rented her house out for 12 months while traveling. She from what I heard had a good experience with it. It’s a difficult situation and one I am afraid only you can answer. I would definitely look into it and ask lots of questions. I think you can get a company to organise it all for you. Although obviously they will take a cut from the rent. I’m sorry I couldn’t be of much help with this. I wish you luck with your plans and hope you get to head out to Asia again soon. Thanks for your message. 🥰🇰🇭
Thanks very much for your reply Sonja, keep inspiring people and keep the videos coming!
I visited Siem Reap some time ago and found the people very friendly polite and respectfull but a poor country . I also at the same time visited Vietnam but much prefer Siem Reap. It would be a great place to live with internal Asian flights to other countries if you need medical issues . I think we all need a sea change later in our life it brings adventure and accept and embrace change good luck everyone if you go on that journey.
I'm sure you will notice big changes since your last visit. I have noticed changes and I have only been here 6 months. 😊
@nanwithabackpack I am sure it has changed I was impressed by the people and a lovely country .
Nice video. You didn't mention cost of visa etc. often this can be quite considerable if staying long term. I'm not sure if you are.
$1 per day!!!! 😁 I’m not a Visa expert but more details coming on Sunday
im 41 and move out of my house tomorrow in to a van, with the aim to save save save and save some more and then jump off to SE asia to live happy ever after.
Thats fantastic, I would like to do van life for awhile. but maybe in New Zealand!!!! 😁