I just turned 62 yrs old and if I file for social security benefits now I can get almost $2000 a month. I just started watching your video and some from a few other Thailand vlogers and I'm planning on making my move to Thailand next year. Thank you for your videos.
I just turned 62 as well. I’m in Canada and got my Canada Pension Plan benefits but have to wait until 65 to get my Old Age Pension. Then I’ll bring in about $2000 Canadian. I’m also looking at spending most of my retirement travelling and living in SE Asia including Da Nang Vietnam. Cheers
I took SS at age 65. Mostly becasue I wanted to roll into Medicare. I don't get much SS money (as I have a defined benefit package from my state pension plan). Oh well......I can't really complain. "I made it this far!"
I plan to retire in Hua Hin too. After living and working in Asia for the past several years, I can’t imagine moving back to America. Too expensive, too violent, unfriendly.
I started eating at that very Chinese-style roasted duck and red pork noodle and rice shop on Phetkasem Hwy near the town center twenty-four years ago. The kids now run the shop, but it is still the same recipes, delicious, affordable, and consistent.
@@RetireandGo Another restaurant that has been around that long in Hua Hin is Krua Kannikar. Famous for their kanom jeen, fried chicken, and laab near the railway station 190 7 Prapokklao Rd.
I took my children to Bangkok last week and they were surprised at how cheap and sophisticated the city was. They enjoyed the cheap food and services. What they didn't like was the weather. lol
Great video. Chris video with my morning coffee. Kick starts my day with inspiration. Glad I found your videos. They keep the positive vibes flowing. Cheers Friend.
I fell in love with Hua Hin nearly 30 years ago when i was a young back packer . I always knew I would return but now with the intention of staying there for good. Just got to convince the wife :)
Hello Chris!! Our update for you as we are all retirement family. House just went up for sale. 98% of all our "stuff" has been sold or donated. The other 2% in a 10x12' storage unit. We are staying in hotels or timeshare rentals until we depart for Malaysia this Spring. Just pending the house sale and signing the forms. It has taken a year of prep to get to this point. We are ready to launch in a few months!!
A lot of work selling a house, 98% of your stuff, and renting a place until you take off for Asia. My method exactly, except I left for China. I'd prefer Malaysia as they speak a significant amount English and Mandarin there (my wife is Chinese), but we needed to be closer to her elderly parents. We go back to the US in March to sort through all the boxes we have in storage in preparation for shipping (flying) it over to our new condo. Fun times, you will soon get to enjoy too. Good luck.
I just visited KL & Thailand. I am attracted much by these 2 countries, and personally Thailand is more open, kind and diverse to live after retirement. Btw I am from eastern China and nearly 50s in a half retirement state.
Thank you for your wonderful inspiration 👍 You show us all what is possible! We’re working to be financially free in about 1.5yrs and can hardly eat to join in the travelling/exploring life too! 🙏
100% truth right there!! I hope you get to see your kids soon Chris. I have a feeling it might be your "next" stop. Making my 1st Thailand trip tomorrow. Long flight, but I'm stoked!!
I first discovered Southeast Asia as a photographer back in the '80s Then 4 years ago at 68 I turn my farm over to my son and I spend my winters in Southeast Asia or Argentina and my summer times in Eastern Europe. I just spent half a year in the country of Georgia and in a few days I'm returning to Thailand and then going to Cambodia. And I do it on only $1,400 S.S. a month. The only unpredictable is medical because at 72 it is impossible to get coverage at anything reasonable so I just risk it.
Aloha my friend, another sunny and beautiful day in Hua Hin. Blue skies and ocean, now that is one relaxing location for retirement. You are spot on the USA retirement situation. Social Security is the great government Ponzi Scheme. I enjoy your adventures to spot mom and pops restaurants and the pork and duck looks so yuummy. Another very informative and educational video. And great recommendation for massages.Maybe your best recommendation for massages in Hau Hin or Bangkok. Mahalo
As a Thai , I can say Huahin is literally the place where lots of old Thai elites like to visit & stay during their vacations for long long times. It's way more peaceful with diffrent vibes than Pattaya & Phuket.........
Massage? I'm embarrassed to say for the last month, my wife and I have been getting an hour to 90 minute massage at least every other day. Sometimes every day. They have the art of massage down to a science. And yes, 5 to 10 dollars. At the beach, its less 5, but we like the air-conditioned rooms. In the States, an hour massage will set us back at least $100 plus a $20 tip. How often we have a massage in the States? Rarely.
@@Re3iRtH : We’re in Pattaya right now. Heading to the Philippines later today. They give great massages in the Philippines, but nothing compared to Thailand. Thailand also has an ancient technique called Toksen where they use different size hammers on your body to release stress. We actually have a spa in our condominium in the Philippines, Nice to relax with a 90 Min massage before bed.
@@methemonkeyking I just spent 14 months in the Philippines and had to get out - could not take the barking dogs, noise pollution, burning trash, low quality food (deep fried and sugar everything) and internet going out in broad daylight almost every day. Agree the dating and massages are very good in the Philippines :) But the infrastructure and unhealthy lifestyle their got to me after a while.. I am now in Kuala Lumpur for a couple of months but looking at Da Nang or Hua Hin next.
@@methemonkeyking I have to admit my girlfriend wants to give me a massage every day or every other day so we go to a spa maybe 2 or 3 times per year for a paid massage.
Completely agree about Luxury (or Vacation )style full time travel vs a more budgeted lifestyle. After a couple years of traveling- my experience has been that you simply get more experience and interaction with locals and expats when traveling low cost. I have never met or made long term friends with the staff from a luxury resort like I do when I do a home stay, stay at a local family run hotel, find small restaurant or bar run by a local or expat. It’s just not the same. Sometimes money can insulate you, even if you have money for more luxuries - you’re probably better off not spending it.
Love your vids, I will be doing the same in 2-3 years, my question is where do you stay and how do you find the places? do you plan this out in advance? Kent
Very relatively information for All ! Thanks for taking the time to show us how it can be done ✔️ You have a Good heart smart too ...and you Crack me up 😅 too . Good on you from Australia 🇦🇺 😊
Australia is in he same boat as America. I know plenty of people leaving Australia for better countries to live. Plenty of smoke and mirrors in Australia and if you take all the government lies away, the system is broken beyond repair.
You are absolutely correct with government help..They are not your friends..I learned early on to fend for myself..Started a business,saved and invested..Let the money work for you I always say..This should be taught in school at an early age,but the system wants to keep you obedient and controlled..I’ve always gone against the flow..Keep up the great videos and hoping to meet you in Jomtien in February/March..
yup I moved here and married a Thai wife and live retired from 59 ... and saving money every month .. nice weather and great food I am good to go ... same as you do not carry health insurance ... I invested the same monies in the market ... own my home with wife free and clear ,.paid cash so no mortgage no property taxes , no income tax ... not like america where my house property taxes are $6000 a year ... plus health ins, plus school taxes, plus much more expensive energy and food costs
First time coming across your channel. Excellent video. I'm in the same boat as what the article says, so earlier this year I moved to Cambodia. Still have to work, but expenses have dramatically decreased while quality of life has dramatically increased. Cheers from Cambodia!
@mikestout9588 The only requirement/documents I needed was to have a TEFL, which stands for teach English foreign language, certificate. There are literally dozens of places where you can get one, online and in person in a classroom setting. I went with a 120 hour program, which seems to be the minimum that potential employers are looking for. In Cambodia, no college degree is necessary to obtain a teaching position, just the TEFL. When I arrived in Cambodia I took a nine day job assistance program that included on the job training. Upon completion of that program, I had a job offer within 3 days.
Thanks for sharing your experiences. As I was also working and travelling among 50+ countries on all continents quite intensively during last 20 years, for me main reason keeping me away to think seriously to retire abroad is often the medical situation. According to my experiences, this can become easily super expensive, while the quality of treatment is often a major doubt. For example, when I saw al the rich sheiks in the Middle East going to the US or Europe for more intensive medical treatment, it indicates they don't trust all the fancy hospitals in their own countries enough to let them stay. Just wanted to share this major concern.
Thank you for creating this fantastic video with a different perspective of relocating to Thailand. My mother is so against me leaving the United States to live in a foreign country but she’s living in the box like other people and I’m not. You’re right about keeping some kind of investment in the United States and how hard it would be to pay rent there on Social Security. Luckily, I already figured that out. I’ve been to Thailand six times to look at some possible retirement areas. Thank goodness I had a friend that open the door for me or else I never would’ve thought of checking out. Thailand has a possible place to retire. The other reality check I discovered on a recent trip to Thailand is the taxi driver tell me about someone from my home state that pays $210 a month for rent in Thailand and most of what that I read is true!
@@RetireandGo I'll try. I wish my parents told me that. Many foreigners are realizing the COL in Thailand is low. It'll be interesting to see how long the COL in Thailand stays low.
those $2 thai dishes will cost at least $10 to $16 each in USA, if you go to your local authentic Cantonese BBQ restaurant in USA that serve the same thing (roast duck over rice, wonton soup with minced pork filling)
Hello Chris . I was curious about the insurance I would ned. So I went to your recommended website. I found that being 75 is a no-go with them. They insure up to 69 years old... They were polite enough, but I would need to find a different company. Love your videos and be carful around those wild critters you keep finding. 🤣
Looks great, but many things can happen. A few years ago, two people that were very close to me, my good friend and brother, decided to move to SE Asia. My friend was like you, hoping around countries enjoying life, saving money. He was very healthy like you and in his early 50s. He thought he had beat the system by living this nomadic life overseas. My brother was quite wealthy and simply wanted to live in SE Asia to get away from the hassles in America. He wanted more "freedom." He was living quite well in Bangkok. Unfortunately, my friend had a heart attack while in Thailand and could not be saved. Not long after, my brother was involved in a bad road accident that put him in the ER and ICU in a very highly regarded Bangkok hospital. Even with all of his money he could not be saved because this hospital (which is thought of as one of the best in Asia) just didn't have medical personnel that were capable enough to see him through. Both were sent back to the USA for autopsies and it was determined that they could have been saved if they were in better hands. My friend's cause of death was not from the heart attack but from malpractice. My brother passed due to inadequate training of medical staff. None of this was ever disclosed to me because there is no such thing as malpractice in these countries. I wonder how many people are dying due to the same reason. We have a system in place in America to help reduce this. It's called malpractice lawsuits. It puts pressure on medical staff to always be diligent and always be armed with the latest equipment and continuing education. This is a lesson for you and everyone else to never overlook something like this. America has it's share of problems. And medical care costs are ridiculous no doubt. But you cannot put a price on human life. If a life threatening situation arises, I want to be in the best care possible. Please be careful and stay safe.
Well the one that did not have much money would probably be bankrupted and enslaved with debt due to the medical bills. The rich guy sounds really really unlucky. Even in the US there are around 40,000 road fatalities annually. I hope we all live to a ripe old age. Please accept my condolences regards your loss.
@@MarkMark-ji6ts The upside to not living in fear of malpractice and having to buy very expensive malpractice insurance, healthcare providers can provide services much cheaper than US providers. Life is a series of choices, at the personal level and at the national level. Choose wisely.
Hi. I have been following your journey and it’s very inspirational. Been going through child custody legal battles for 8 yrs now and see no end to it all. Looking at changing my life and doing what you are doing. After Covid lockdowns I have started travelling back to Thailand again. Would like to know your name, if that’s ok. Very inspirational, keep up the fantastic work you are doing. Peter
Im curious as to the date of filming as I've heard from November for a couple of months its not best beach in hua hin but it looks perfect of your vids. I am asking due to planning my travel. Thanks Chris any info will help big time
With the unpredictability of everything, looking after yourself and not relying on anyone else seems like the best idea. But how do you feel about the idea of renting forever vs having a property somewhere that you own and fall back on if you need a plan B?
I curious what it would be like to live there having to use a wheelchair all the time. I’m paralyzed but very active and am totally independent with the exception of going up steps or whatever. If you know of any areas, they would be good to live that would be very helpful. Thanks for the great content you provide.
This is a good question I wish I had more information to give you If you do decide to move to Bangkok you will be able to take rail everywhere Also just find one accessible building and a good priced long term rental Maybe even start a YT channel showing how you live in Bangkok as well to help others. Needed!
@@RetireandGo Thank you for your reply. I will look into Bangkok and see if there are any expats out there that would have a good idea also. Have a great week!
Good thinking Chris. Anyone who relies on the government for their health or retirement is looking at disappointment. Fortunately, Canada seems to have a sustainable federal pension program. But if it fails, we are still going to enjoy it anyway.
@@RetireandGo interesting i didn't know that. I was just there comparing Cha Am to Huahin. All the conveniences are in Huahin but it's definitely more busy.
Just ran across your videos. Very interesting. Im in a similar situation to you. How is the dating in thailand for guys our age? I dont drink and am not interested in bar girls. Kind of rules out a lot of dating in the west.
Social security was originally OASDI, when created, people were not expecting to receive benefits, died before collecting SS, i can't argue that it's a ponzi scheme. I certainly appreciate your videos!
it is such a pretty and laid back place, only thing i wish i knew before i came here is that you can pretty much not walk on the beach in dec/jan because of the tides which are extra high :(
also do you think Hua Hin is the best place to retire? i was thinking of Samui, but its an island, so probably more expensive than hua hin. i appreciate so much your videos. you just motiavate me to plan ahead. i so need it, ty ))))
Samui, hands down. So many people put money ahead of happiness. Samui is a tropical paradise with beautiful beaches, fantastic swimming in the ocean and plenty to do. And if you are on a budget you can rent a cheap house or find cheap rooms by the month once you get there and scout around.
@@RetireandGo fantastic now in Hong Kong tomorrow Bejing. Good to hear you can hang . Your videos will help a lot guys wise up and leave Dodge. Like you said SocSec not going to sustain.
I loved your video…. I’m 52 and need to retire for the same reasons you said… I think I have 2-3 years max left…… I’ve been trying to study the dividends approach but not feeling confident. …. I went to to Krabi twice last year In Aonang, and can not wait to retire there…… help me out sir🙏🏻🇹🇭🙏🏻
Hey Brother i hope you make it to Europe that is probably where i'll end up love the way they live there, AKA Montenegro is a hidden gem or Greece or Portugal anywhere in the Mediterranean
could you do a video perhaps about the best way to change your state residency and to maintain residency if you never go back to the USA? This was a great video overall.. (although still trying to understand the peculiar ending with the ninja cat and the voice over🤣)
Check out the TH-cam channel Grounded Life Retirement Travel. They have a video called “Why retirement travelers get a South Dakota drivers license before moving overseas” which should answer your question.
I had a patient who did just that. She was a widow and was tired of her adult kids and their kids living off of her. She walked away from everything and was adamant that she would not be notifying her kids where she was!
Love your content! But have you considered visitng North Asia such as China and Japan? You would be surprised at the low cost vs value there too! ( recommend Yunnan, China)😊
Full retirement age (FRA) changed from 65 to 67 in 1983, and it was phased in over 20 years. (It's 67 for anyone born in 1960 or later.) Hopefully they would phase it in again - that would mean anyone within 20 years of 67 would not be affected. There are other knobs they could turn to adjust things, though. Who knew that the so-called population bomb in the 70s would turn out to be an implosion not an explosion.
I hope they phase it in over 20 years. I’m 50 and hoping to get something. Personally I think a better idea is to remove the cap on contributions. The rich might pay a little more and that is the sticking point - they have an outsize influence on policy.
I'll be 60 in Feb and plan on retiring maybe 64 or 65 giving me $75k - $90k/yr pension for life from Gov job. I don't think I'm relying on Social Security. I am planning on making few trips to Thailand and the Phillipines within two years to give me an idea where I want to live. But for now, I'm eyeing Phuket
@@RetireandGo What's the card? Schwab has told me that if outside the country over 365 days, they'll convert it to an international account and ATM fees are not reimbursed.
Thanks Chris, you are realist and your plan seems to be working. Always good advice from you. Do you ever get lonely? Is dating in your plan? Would love to know. On a separate matter if your around Bangkok and or Pattaya around Christmas time I would love to catch up for a beer. Cheers!
Social security isnt meant to be the solo fund for a retirement. Everyone has always had the ability to invest. Im absolutely tired of hearing about people pushing off responsibility away from themselves.
Great video, Christopher! Did you change your HI tax residency to TX before you became an expat? If so, how did you do that without having to reside there?
I just turned 62 yrs old and if I file for social security benefits now I can get almost $2000 a month. I just started watching your video and some from a few other Thailand vlogers and I'm planning on making my move to Thailand next year. Thank you for your videos.
I just turned 62 as well. I’m in Canada and got my Canada Pension Plan benefits but have to wait until 65 to get my Old Age Pension. Then I’ll bring in about $2000 Canadian. I’m also looking at spending most of my retirement travelling and living in SE Asia including Da Nang Vietnam. Cheers
I took SS at age 65. Mostly becasue I wanted to roll into Medicare. I don't get much SS money (as I have a defined benefit package from my state pension plan). Oh well......I can't really complain. "I made it this far!"
Congratulations Arth!
Yes sir, moving to Laos, ASAP. Building a home right now. Bye bye America.
You don't want to live in TL more than 179 days a year as TL is proposing a worldwide income tax on resident expats (180 days or more a year).
Your the man and thank you for giving us all hope and motivation!
This makes me feel great
It is my mission to inspire you in the spirit of bodhisattva
I plan to retire in Hua Hin too. After living and working in Asia for the past several years, I can’t imagine moving back to America. Too expensive, too violent, unfriendly.
I agree with you
I feel the same
I started eating at that very Chinese-style roasted duck and red pork noodle and rice shop on Phetkasem Hwy near the town center twenty-four years ago. The kids now run the shop, but it is still the same recipes, delicious, affordable, and consistent.
You have been traveling here for some time !
What's the name of the restaurant, the food looks so good
@@RetireandGo Another restaurant that has been around that long in Hua Hin is Krua Kannikar. Famous for their kanom jeen, fried chicken, and laab near the railway station 190 7 Prapokklao Rd.
@ yum!
I took my children to Bangkok last week and they were surprised at how cheap and sophisticated the city was. They enjoyed the cheap food and services. What they didn't like was the weather. lol
Oh yes
Bangkok is incredible
Why would they be surprised how sophisticated it is? What were they expecting, mud huts?
There's more smog in BKK.
Appreciate the honesty and transparency. A peaceful life, near the beach, with regular massages sounds pretty luxurious to us.
Oh yes they are therapeutic
:-)
@RetireandGo I bet. Great channel👍🏽
Great video. Chris video with my morning coffee. Kick starts my day with inspiration. Glad I found your videos. They keep the positive vibes flowing. Cheers Friend.
Thank you
I enjoy a piece of chocolate with morning coffee :-)
Thanks Chris. It looks lovely there. My wife and I always enjoy watching your vids
I wish you both a great thanksgiving
Exciting!!! This gives me hope. I should be ready in a few years!!
Very nice!
Keep
Us updated
I fell in love with Hua Hin nearly 30 years ago when i was a young back packer . I always knew I would return but now with the intention of staying there for good. Just got to convince the wife :)
Take her for a few weeks
She will love it
I love your positivity! Keep up the great work; I always look forward to your videos.
Thank you for this kind comment
Hello Chris!! Our update for you as we are all retirement family. House just went up for sale. 98% of all our "stuff" has been sold or donated. The other 2% in a 10x12' storage unit. We are staying in hotels or timeshare rentals until we depart for Malaysia this Spring. Just pending the house sale and signing the forms. It has taken a year of prep to get to this point. We are ready to launch in a few months!!
I loved reading this
You are doing great
A lot of work selling a house, 98% of your stuff, and renting a place until you take off for Asia. My method exactly, except I left for China. I'd prefer Malaysia as they speak a significant amount English and Mandarin there (my wife is Chinese), but we needed to be closer to her elderly parents. We go back to the US in March to sort through all the boxes we have in storage in preparation for shipping (flying) it over to our new condo. Fun times, you will soon get to enjoy too. Good luck.
I just visited KL & Thailand. I am attracted much by these 2 countries, and personally Thailand is more open, kind and diverse to live after retirement. Btw I am from eastern China and nearly 50s in a half retirement state.
@ I agree these are good destinations
Thank you for your wonderful inspiration 👍
You show us all what is possible!
We’re working to be financially free in about 1.5yrs and can hardly eat to join in the travelling/exploring life too! 🙏
This is so good to read
I want you to live your best life :-)
its a pleasure listening to you inspire on
@@TorsumSZulfiqar I appreciate this
Have a good week :-)
Greatly enjoy your videos, and common sense approach to investing. Thank you!😮
Thank you
I appreciate this
We don’t need a luxury retirement, a comfortable retirement will do 💯
I agree
Well said
Yes, I'm doing the same mate. Happy Thanksgiving 😀Watching from sunny Palm Springs. Will be back SE Asian January!
I’m be back next year as well !
Nice
You are very inspirational, and im not easily impressed. Well done buddy👍👍
Thank you for this feedback I appreciate it :-)
Great positive energy. I’d love to see your accommodation.
Yes for sure
Check out the first Hua Hin video I did for a full review
100% truth right there!!
I hope you get to see your kids soon Chris. I have a feeling it might be your "next" stop.
Making my 1st Thailand trip tomorrow. Long flight, but I'm stoked!!
Check out videos next week :-)
!!
I first discovered Southeast Asia as a photographer back in the '80s
Then 4 years ago at 68 I turn my farm over to my son and I spend my winters in Southeast Asia or Argentina and my summer times in Eastern Europe. I just spent half a year in the country of Georgia and in a few days I'm returning to Thailand and then going to Cambodia. And I do it on only $1,400 S.S. a month. The only unpredictable is medical because at 72 it is impossible to get coverage at anything reasonable so I just risk it.
You have a good plan
And lots of experience in this area !
Inspired me. Especially the meals. Good info. Good video. Thanks.
Thank you kindly
Foot massages are the best. When the use exfoliation on your feet and ancles is amazing.
I totally agree!
Aloha my friend, another sunny and beautiful day in Hua Hin. Blue skies and ocean, now that is one relaxing location for retirement. You are spot on the USA retirement situation. Social Security is the great government Ponzi Scheme. I enjoy your adventures to spot mom and pops restaurants and the pork and duck looks so yuummy. Another very informative and educational video. And great recommendation for massages.Maybe your best recommendation for massages in Hau Hin or Bangkok. Mahalo
I appreciate this comment
Thank you :-)
Fantastic content. Thank you, subscribed. Best wishes to you!
Best wishes to you as well :-)
Enjoyed the video as always. I am working my plan now so I can retire as soon as possible!
This is great to read
Keep us updated !
That foot massage.. yes please. Congratulations on 18 k Chris
Thank you kindly
Oh yes those massages really help
How are you doing? Everything ok?
❤ 😂 yep! @RetireandGo
Great video I especially love the end with the mad ninja attack cat 🐈⬛ 😂
Haha
Yes they come at me
Keep em coming Chris. Enjoying my morning coffee as I watch your videos and dream about the day I can leave snowy Canada 😃🙏
You absolutely can :-)
Have a good day
Very good video. Got me thinking. Doyou live there year round or a few months during the year?
A few months a year then on to other countries
As a Thai , I can say Huahin is literally the place where lots of old Thai elites like to visit & stay during their vacations for long long times. It's way more peaceful with diffrent vibes than Pattaya & Phuket.........
It’s a darn good place for sure
Massage? I'm embarrassed to say for the last month, my wife and I have been getting an hour to 90 minute massage at least every other day. Sometimes every day. They have the art of massage down to a science. And yes, 5 to 10 dollars. At the beach, its less 5, but we like the air-conditioned rooms.
In the States, an hour massage will set us back at least $100 plus a $20 tip. How often we have a massage in the States? Rarely.
This is awesome !
Thank you :-)
Are you in Hua Hin?
@@Re3iRtH : We’re in Pattaya right now. Heading to the Philippines later today. They give great massages in the Philippines, but nothing compared to Thailand. Thailand also has an ancient technique called Toksen where they use different size hammers on your body to release stress. We actually have a spa in our condominium in the Philippines, Nice to relax with a 90 Min massage before bed.
@@methemonkeyking I just spent 14 months in the Philippines and had to get out - could not take the barking dogs, noise pollution, burning trash, low quality food (deep fried and sugar everything) and internet going out in broad daylight almost every day. Agree the dating and massages are very good in the Philippines :)
But the infrastructure and unhealthy lifestyle their got to me after a while..
I am now in Kuala Lumpur for a couple of months but looking at Da Nang or Hua Hin next.
@@methemonkeyking I have to admit my girlfriend wants to give me a massage every day or every other day so we go to a spa maybe 2 or 3 times per year for a paid massage.
I just started living this way in September, what a way to live. Thanks for sharing
Very nice
Keep us updated on your travels
Another banger! Thank you.
Thank you kindly :-)
Very nice, thank you again. Spot on.
You are most welcome :-)
Completely agree about Luxury (or Vacation )style full time travel vs a more budgeted lifestyle. After a couple years of traveling- my experience has been that you simply get more experience and interaction with locals and expats when traveling low cost. I have never met or made long term friends with the staff from a luxury resort like I do when I do a home stay, stay at a local family run hotel, find small restaurant or bar run by a local or expat. It’s just not the same. Sometimes money can insulate you, even if you have money for more luxuries - you’re probably better off not spending it.
I agree with you
Thank you for this
Well said
Love your vids, I will be doing the same in 2-3 years, my question is where do you stay and how do you find the places? do you plan this out in advance? Kent
I start with Expedia for like three days
Then I walk to find the real deals :-)
@@RetireandGo Great Idea ! thank you
Very relatively information for All ! Thanks for taking the time to show us how it can be done ✔️
You have a Good heart smart too
...and you Crack me up 😅 too . Good on you from Australia 🇦🇺 😊
Thank you kindly :-)
Hua Hin is fantastic 😊
True
Peaceful and beautiful
Love the beach...its a safe place as well.
The American Dream is now leaving America !
Truth
🎯
The Dream of the majority of West I'D say..
Australia is in he same boat as America. I know plenty of people leaving Australia for better countries to live. Plenty of smoke and mirrors in Australia and if you take all the government lies away, the system is broken beyond repair.
Excellent comment. Greetings from Cambodia!
I appreciate your channel. I'm a 62 year old female in Vermont. Enjoy your food & wellness videos. Will you go to Bali?
Oh yes
Bali every year
I have videos up to check out :-)
I retired at 33 years old in Vietnam i am 37 years old now. I live in California for 26 years.
33!!
That’s incredible
Please start social media and teach others
You are absolutely correct with government help..They are not your friends..I learned early on to fend for myself..Started a business,saved and invested..Let the money work for you I always say..This should be taught in school at an early age,but the system wants to keep you obedient and controlled..I’ve always gone against the flow..Keep up the great videos and hoping to meet you in Jomtien in February/March..
Very nice !
What type of business did you start?
@ Custom sofas for 30 years..Retired now enjoying the good life..Seriously considering relocating..The West is too stressful for me these days..
yup I moved here and married a Thai wife and live retired from 59 ... and saving money every month .. nice weather and great food I am good to go ... same as you do not carry health insurance ... I invested the same monies in the market ... own my home with wife free and clear ,.paid cash so no mortgage no property taxes , no income tax ... not like america where my house property taxes are $6000 a year ... plus health ins, plus school taxes, plus much more expensive energy and food costs
You are doing great!
Yes taxes were eating me up in the US
I think i missrd where in Thailand you are. I love SE Asia! And Air Asia flights and private car services and scooter rentals are all so affordable.
Hua Hin
Nice area :-)
First time coming across your channel. Excellent video. I'm in the same boat as what the article says, so earlier this year I moved to Cambodia. Still have to work, but expenses have dramatically decreased while quality of life has dramatically increased. Cheers from Cambodia!
What kind of job did you find there?
@mikestout9588 I'm an English language teacher at a private school.
Cambodia is very nice
I enjoyed my trip there
@@MMPlaneSpotting-su3ns Awesome, what kind of qualifications were needed to line that up, if you don't mind me asking.
@mikestout9588 The only requirement/documents I needed was to have a TEFL, which stands for teach English foreign language, certificate. There are literally dozens of places where you can get one, online and in person in a classroom setting. I went with a 120 hour program, which seems to be the minimum that potential employers are looking for. In Cambodia, no college degree is necessary to obtain a teaching position, just the TEFL. When I arrived in Cambodia I took a nine day job assistance program that included on the job training. Upon completion of that program, I had a job offer within 3 days.
Thanks for sharing your experiences. As I was also working and travelling among 50+ countries on all continents quite intensively during last 20 years, for me main reason keeping me away to think seriously to retire abroad is often the medical situation. According to my experiences, this can become easily super expensive, while the quality of treatment is often a major doubt. For example, when I saw al the rich sheiks in the Middle East going to the US or Europe for more intensive medical treatment, it indicates they don't trust all the fancy hospitals in their own countries enough to let them stay. Just wanted to share this major concern.
I appreciate you sharing this !
Another great video have a great day😂
Thank you kindly :-)
Thumbs up 👍 Chris
Aloha ! Thank you
Thank you for creating this fantastic video with a different perspective of relocating to Thailand. My mother is so against me leaving the United States to live in a foreign country but she’s living in the box like other people and I’m not. You’re right about keeping some kind of investment in the United States and how hard it would be to pay rent there on Social Security. Luckily, I already figured that out. I’ve been to Thailand six times to look at some possible retirement areas. Thank goodness I had a friend that open the door for me or else I never would’ve thought of checking out. Thailand has a possible place to retire. The other reality check I discovered on a recent trip to Thailand is the taxi driver tell me about someone from my home state that pays $210 a month for rent in Thailand and most of what that I read is true!
I understand what you are saying
You need to build your life for you :-)
@@RetireandGo I'll try. I wish my parents told me that. Many foreigners are realizing the COL in Thailand is low. It'll be interesting to see how long the COL in Thailand stays low.
@@RetireandGo agreed bruh
Know and love the duck place mate,just near Soi 51..Enjoy brother
It’s a great one :-)
u are a lovely caracteres. nice nice thanks God for your existe.
@@ezattolla blessings to you :-)
good video great contain ! 👍
Thank you so much :-)
How much do you pay for insurance
About 100
A month
those $2 thai dishes will cost at least $10 to $16 each in USA, if you go to your local authentic Cantonese BBQ restaurant in USA that serve the same thing (roast duck over rice, wonton soup with minced pork filling)
True
And fresh, hot
Hey, Chris. Your plan is exactly what I'm shooting for! Could you list what dividend stocks you're invested in?
I have a diverse portfolio
Energy
Pipelines
Infrastructure
Transportation
Pharma
Bond funds
Hello Chris . I was curious about the insurance I would ned. So I went to your recommended website. I found that being 75 is a no-go with them. They insure up to 69 years old... They were polite enough, but I would need to find a different company. Love your videos and be carful around those wild critters you keep finding. 🤣
I appreciate this feedback!
What about the temperature ?
It’s not too bad
This time of year is warm but not unbearable
Looks great, but many things can happen. A few years ago, two people that were very close to me, my good friend and brother, decided to move to SE Asia. My friend was like you, hoping around countries enjoying life, saving money. He was very healthy like you and in his early 50s. He thought he had beat the system by living this nomadic life overseas. My brother was quite wealthy and simply wanted to live in SE Asia to get away from the hassles in America. He wanted more "freedom." He was living quite well in Bangkok. Unfortunately, my friend had a heart attack while in Thailand and could not be saved. Not long after, my brother was involved in a bad road accident that put him in the ER and ICU in a very highly regarded Bangkok hospital.
Even with all of his money he could not be saved because this hospital (which is thought of as one of the best in Asia) just didn't have medical personnel that were capable enough to see him through. Both were sent back to the USA for autopsies and it was determined that they could have been saved if they were in better hands. My friend's cause of death was not from the heart attack but from malpractice. My brother passed due to inadequate training of medical staff. None of this was ever disclosed to me because there is no such thing as malpractice in these countries.
I wonder how many people are dying due to the same reason. We have a system in place in America to help reduce this. It's called malpractice lawsuits. It puts pressure on medical staff to always be diligent and always be armed with the latest equipment and continuing education.
This is a lesson for you and everyone else to never overlook something like this. America has it's share of problems. And medical care costs are ridiculous no doubt. But you cannot put a price on human life. If a life threatening situation arises, I want to be in the best care possible. Please be careful and stay safe.
Wow, you really know how to mess up a wet dream. Geez! 🤣
Wild story
Thank you for this
Be at peace
Invest
Travel
Well the one that did not have much money would probably be bankrupted and enslaved with debt due to the medical bills. The rich guy sounds really really unlucky. Even in the US there are around 40,000 road fatalities annually. I hope we all live to a ripe old age. Please accept my condolences regards your loss.
@@MarkMark-ji6ts The upside to not living in fear of malpractice and having to buy very expensive malpractice insurance, healthcare providers can provide services much cheaper than US providers. Life is a series of choices, at the personal level and at the national level. Choose wisely.
Hi. I have been following your journey and it’s very inspirational. Been going through child custody legal battles for 8 yrs now and see no end to it all. Looking at changing my life and doing what you are doing. After Covid lockdowns I have started travelling back to Thailand again. Would like to know your name, if that’s ok. Very inspirational, keep up the fantastic work you are doing. Peter
It’s my mission to inspire you in the spirit of bodhisattva
:-)
🙏
Happy Thanksgiving!
To you as well :-)
Thank you for this video Chris. There is another option.
Absolutely
I feel we have some good options
Hi Chris, please be careful of those vicious animals we need you to be safe and well so you can bring us more great videos😊
Haha yes true :-)
Sounds great, I have some funds in the s & p but think I need to sell it and reinvest it into dividends
Well I guess when you need the dividends
Growth stocks are sweet too :-)
Hello Chris. Very inspirational video. Do you buy some PUTs to protect your stocks from downturns?
I use diversity
I wish I understood all that stuff
You are smarter than me !
Great, do you give advice on dividend stocks ?
Not advice but I do make videos about what I invest in
Ok I will take a look, thanks
Im curious as to the date of filming as I've heard from November for a couple of months its not best beach in hua hin but it looks perfect of your vids. I am asking due to planning my travel. Thanks Chris any info will help big time
Hmmm
The videos are a few weeks back
But, this is pretty much the scene haha
those dividends, grrrr, i need some help, where can i get info on it? how to practically do it?
Start an online account
Transfer money every month
Buy shares monthly
Start building that retirement
@@RetireandGo i will write you an email. i trust you have good info,
Thank you for the information
You are welcome
Have a great day
Do they add sugar/syrup, etc. into the smoothies? If so, I suppose one could request they don’t.
Thanks for the quality content!
Hmm I think fruit mostly
With the unpredictability of everything, looking after yourself and not relying on anyone else seems like the best idea. But how do you feel about the idea of renting forever vs having a property somewhere that you own and fall back on if you need a plan B?
Great point
Add a little real estate to your portfolio
Good for long term plans !
I curious what it would be like to live there having to use a wheelchair all the time. I’m paralyzed but very active and am totally independent with the exception of going up steps or whatever. If you know of any areas, they would be good to live that would be very helpful. Thanks for the great content you provide.
This is a good question
I wish I had more information to give you
If you do decide to move to Bangkok you will be able to take rail everywhere
Also just find one accessible building and a good priced long term rental
Maybe even start a YT channel showing how you live in Bangkok as well to help others. Needed!
@@RetireandGo Thank you for your reply. I will look into Bangkok and see if there are any expats out there that would have a good idea also. Have a great week!
Doing good bro! 👍🏼
Thank you so much :-)
Good thinking Chris. Anyone who relies on the government for their health or retirement is looking at disappointment. Fortunately, Canada seems to have a sustainable federal pension program. But if it fails, we are still going to enjoy it anyway.
Yeah, we are preparing
That’s important!
Could you kindly share with us your dividen portfolio and distribution. Thank you.
Absolutely
I’ll talk much more in videos about my portfolio ok?
Is Huahin I fed her retirement area than Jomtein?
It’s a great retirement location
I think it just won an award for that
Low cost and peaceful
@@RetireandGo interesting i didn't know that. I was just there comparing Cha Am to Huahin. All the conveniences are in Huahin but it's definitely more busy.
Just ran across your videos. Very interesting. Im in a similar situation to you. How is the dating in thailand for guys our age? I dont drink and am not interested in bar girls. Kind of rules out a lot of dating in the west.
Real dating is good in Thailand you will be happy
Social security was originally OASDI, when created, people were not expecting to receive benefits, died before collecting SS, i can't argue that it's a ponzi scheme. I certainly appreciate your videos!
Thank you kindly :-)
We shall prepare so we are ready
it is such a pretty and laid back place, only thing i wish i knew before i came here is that you can pretty much not walk on the beach in dec/jan because of the tides which are extra high :(
The tide really does come in!
also do you think Hua Hin is the best place to retire? i was thinking of Samui, but its an island, so probably more expensive than hua hin. i appreciate so much your videos. you just motiavate me to plan ahead. i so need it, ty ))))
Samui, hands down. So many people put money ahead of happiness. Samui is a tropical paradise with beautiful beaches, fantastic swimming in the ocean and plenty to do. And if you are on a budget you can rent a cheap house or find cheap rooms by the month once you get there and scout around.
I think HH would be a nice destination for sure
@@justinj2954 i love Samui, dont know HH tough yet
Hua Hin is the best bang for your buck in all of Thailand. I've been living here 30 years.
@@scotniver7180 what about Khanom? I was there, beautiful deserted beaches, empty roads and cheap
Those dividends surely arent guaranteed?
Nothing in life is. Invest , retire , travel
How long can you sustain this life style
I dont touch my investments
Just spend the dividends
It’s sustainable
:-)
How is everything going?
@@RetireandGo fantastic now in Hong Kong tomorrow Bejing. Good to hear you can hang . Your videos will help a lot guys wise up and leave Dodge. Like you said SocSec not going to sustain.
I loved your video…. I’m 52 and need to retire for the same reasons you said… I think I have 2-3 years max left…… I’ve been trying to study the dividends approach but not feeling confident. …. I went to to Krabi twice last year In Aonang, and can not wait to retire there…… help me out sir🙏🏻🇹🇭🙏🏻
I totally understand
I will give all the information I can in these videos
Come along :-)
Hey Brother i hope you make it to Europe that is probably where i'll end up love the way they live there, AKA Montenegro is a hidden gem or Greece or Portugal anywhere in the Mediterranean
Oh my yes I want to see those !
could you do a video perhaps about the best way to change your state residency and to maintain residency if you never go back to the USA? This was a great video overall.. (although still trying to understand the peculiar ending with the ninja cat and the voice over🤣)
I’ll work on this
Yes I find cars and dogs around as I enjoy them
It’s just comedy :-)
Check out the TH-cam channel Grounded Life Retirement Travel. They have a video called “Why retirement travelers get a South Dakota drivers license before moving overseas” which should answer your question.
@ this sounds very good ! I appreciate this
The war zone idea was a good one, what kind of work was it? I'm ready to roll the dice on that too.
IT
East Europe is opening up with a lot of work
Does changing residence to a low tax state require changing your drivers license too?
That us actually an easy step to do it
My retirement plan was easy. I told the family I was going out for milk and never went back.
Haha you nut :-)
I had a patient who did just that. She was a widow and was tired of her adult kids and their kids living off of her. She walked away from everything and was adamant that she would not be notifying her kids where she was!
Love your content! But have you considered visitng North Asia such as China and Japan? You would be surprised at the low cost vs value there too! ( recommend Yunnan, China)😊
Oh yes I have been
I might go again
It’s a bit more expensive
What hotel are you staying in at Hua Hin? Is it budget friendly?
Check out the first HH video
Great place !!
peace love and happiness. ~!!!
And right back to you !
Peace !!
I keep for the last part of ninja cat 🤣
Yes haha
They be watchin me
Full retirement age (FRA) changed from 65 to 67 in 1983, and it was phased in over 20 years. (It's 67 for anyone born in 1960 or later.) Hopefully they would phase it in again - that would mean anyone within 20 years of 67 would not be affected. There are other knobs they could turn to adjust things, though. Who knew that the so-called population bomb in the 70s would turn out to be an implosion not an explosion.
I hope they phase it in over 20 years. I’m 50 and hoping to get something. Personally I think a better idea is to remove the cap on contributions. The rich might pay a little more and that is the sticking point - they have an outsize influence on policy.
Good point
The planners could not know :-)
@@RetireandGo like you, I plan on living on my dividends though. Social Security will be the cherry on top but I still want it :)
I've traveled all over Thailand including the north rural areas. $2 USD for meals? I didn't see it...especially if the meal includes protein.
Oh yes
Look for the carts
You will be amazed
Great video! Just subscribed.
Can you name some dividend stocks worth looking into?
I like lyb
Pick
Rio
O
ABR
PFE
ET
EPD
ENB
SOLID !!!
Thank you :-)
I'll be 60 in Feb and plan on retiring maybe 64 or 65 giving me $75k - $90k/yr pension for life from Gov job. I don't think I'm relying on Social Security. I am planning on making few trips to Thailand and the Phillipines within two years to give me an idea where I want to live. But for now, I'm eyeing Phuket
That’s a darn good retirement income !
You are set
@@RetireandGo So, do you pay everything in cash? I'm curious
@ mostly cash but my Visa card has zero overseas transaction fees
So it’s just like cash too :-)
@@RetireandGo What's the card? Schwab has told me that if outside the country over 365 days, they'll convert it to an international account and ATM fees are not reimbursed.
Thanks Chris, you are realist and your plan seems to be working. Always good advice from you. Do you ever get lonely? Is dating in your plan? Would love to know. On a separate matter if your around Bangkok and or Pattaya around Christmas time I would love to catch up for a beer. Cheers!
Thank you :-)
I’m ok traveling solo right now
I’m enjoying this time
Social security isnt meant to be the solo fund for a retirement. Everyone has always had the ability to invest. Im absolutely tired of hearing about people pushing off responsibility away from themselves.
Well said
I agree
Great video, Christopher! Did you change your HI tax residency to TX before you became an expat? If so, how did you do that without having to reside there?
Texas allows a few ways to change
I used a family address
Easy