Thanks Wayne. Down to earth advice. I've been living in Chiang Mai for 3 years now for about 800$ and lived for 12 years in BKK on 750$. Minimal Social Security. A little tough at times, but doable.
Great video, Wayne! I lived on about 1100 a month in Chiang Mai, and I lived like royalty. Now that I know my way around the city, I can go to a market and grab my groceries there very easily. BTW, I was just told by my boss that I am cleared to work as a digital nomad. Any place in the world, whenever I am ready! I have some things to do first, but I'll be back in Chiang Mai once things are cleared!
If only all budget videos could be this clear and simple with no BS. I can totally understand why you haven’t want to do a more detailed budget video Wayne. But you did yourself proud on this one mate. Nice one 👍🙏
@@WalkAboutWayne I agree. Also, if you watch in the mornings like I do, it's not as obnoxious up and down volume and sounds like other VLOGS. No opening like Gangbusters... Long live Walkabout Wayne!!!!
Thank you. I absolutely agree. I am very content here in Bangkok on about 28k baht a month. I enjoy so many activities that are free, yoga in the park, birding, concerts in the park, museums, game nights etc. I pay 10k a month for my 1 bdrm with my own washing machine, pool, gym and close to the BTS. It's a mindset to just let go of thinking your deprived if you don't have Starbucks. Thanks for the vid.
Hi Anne, so good reading you're comment. Like you mentioned, half of it is all mindset, people have it in their head before they even try living on a budget. It's doable and it's pretty easy. Sounds like you have a good basic life down in Bangkok. Thanks Anne.
Thanks for that breakdown. That’s very realistic and useful info. Much appreciated. You’d have to be nuts to pay for Starbucks with all the great coffee available in Chiangmai!
Very inspirational video brother, enjoyed it a lot. I'm from the UK & moved to Thailand in October. I was always worried about budgets and thinking about could i do it or not. My £1000 per month budget seems to be working very well for me since i arrived & my quality of life has improved 10 fold.
Good info, I have been here in Thailand for 20 years and I live on about 400 dollars. I live 10 floors up with an ocean view in a nice well kept building. I do just fine with what I have coming in. I eat at home, and I do not drink or hang out in bars and I do not smoke. I can't tell you how many friends that have died because they drank themselves to death. If you just landed it ain't going to happen on that amount of money. You need about 4 years to learn the ropes. You would need at least a grand a month to get started. Wayne stressed having some back up money for unexpected expense, if at a bare minimum have enough for a flight home you may need it. Good work Wayne now I am going to watch your other videos.
Wow $400 , that's amazing! Just goes to show that it can be done. I know a few people here in Chiang Mai on a similar budget and they seem happy enough. Always worth having that backup money and it sure does get easier with time. Thanks Russ.
Great vid Wayne, right to the point. I had a nice life on 20,000bht a month when I lived in Cha Am, that included rent of 6K, utilities, a massage a week and the odd beer, also eating a mix of thai and and western food. I'd bought a scooter so didn't have to rent one and I don't smoke. I was on retirement stay so had 800K bht in the bank, and that's really important as a back up emergency fund. Yes, if you want to go out boozing every night and paying for "company" then you will need around 40K. The difference, as you say, is that living somewhere is different from being on holiday!
Hi Tanya, great to read you're comment. Yes, it can be done easily for the right person. Boozing and women would put that budget up alot, i agree. If someone is sensible though and had the odd drink, then it's a good life. 🙏
$700USD per month in Chiang Mai is basically survival mode. If I want to survive, I'd stay home. I want to LIVE in Thailand cause my dollar will go much further than back home. Where I live, a one-bedroom condo in the city is $1800USD, that is excluding all other living expenses (fuel, electricity, car insurance, grocery, etc.). I feel that if my budget is anywhere between $1200-1800/month. It is already a WIN. Also, I would prefer to have a private condo to myself rather than sharing rooms. That alone is roughly $600USD for 2 bedrooms in a relatively new building in a central location in Chiang Mai.
I wouldn't say survival, because you can make it work, very basic i would call it. I just looked at a nice single condo yesterday buddy, $200 with 2 bedrooms. I agree with you though, around $1500 would be the sweet spot. Thanks.
Solid brother. My wife and I used to live in Chiang Mai for $700-1000 AUD a month. Actually quite easy if you're not into Starbucks, going out drinking all the time, etc. We used to buy bulk veggies at Royal Park, fruit at the local market, and odds and ends from Rimping or Central Food Hall. We rarely ate out because we like to make our own meals most of the time. I'm not sure if you know this, but Pai can also be cheaper. We lived there about 8 years ago for $500 a month. The local market up there is mega cheap. Anyway I'll stop waffling. Loved the breakdown brother.
Awesome Jason, just goes to show that life here can be good on a small budget. Knowing where to shop really helps yes. I found Chiang Rai to be slightly cheaper than Chiang Mai also. Thanks mate.
I'm in complete agreement with you on lifestyle. You mention Starbucks & point out better options. It's beyond me how ppl can go to Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia...& eat McDonald's, KFC, pizza...WTF? The food in Thailand is outstanding! I like to drink, but not in bars. A few at home or a brew or two in one of the food stalls. I like to live on as little as possible without giving up quality of life; it's not hard. We see eye to eye on this. You are not cheap! You live well & within your means. More power to you! Good one. 👍🇹🇭💸
Thanks! Nice to hear from someone similar and knows how to live cheap but a good lifestyle. I find it easy also to live a good basic life. Thanks again buddy!
I lived in Japan back in 2013 and I said the same thing regarding western food. Japanese food quality and service was light years beyond what we have in America.
Thank you! 35k is cheap compared to what it was. I don't think you'll find a year for to much cheaper these days. They take care of it all for you, yes. Thanks.
Hi Wayne. Good honest video , I’ve subscribed and thumbed up on the back of it. I’m a Yorkshire lad , so careful !!! Could we spend 5 weeks in and around chaing mai ? I’d consider renting a Y’spark for the duration and staying a bit out of centre in the countryside.. could we just get a flight and sort when we get there do you think ? Maybe like you said , book into a hotel for a couple of nights then head out on the bike .. my worry would be that we might not find anywhere available straight away .. we are thinking of coming end of Jan and back 1st week in March. Any help /thoughts would be appreciated. Many Thanks. Neil.
Hi Neil, thanks for the sub mate. You could spend however much time you wanted in Chiang Mai, for sure. Yes, my advice is always book a hotel for a few nights and head out looking for a place. Always places available, especially if your looking outside the city. I would prob book a hotel for nearly a week and have a good look around. Cheers mate
Perfectly explained, especially comparing long term expenses to those you incur when here for just a holiday. Just by being frugal, you can live a great life in a beautiful place like Chiang Mai. My costs are very comparable to yours. 25k allows me to cover all expenses , as well as have money for domestic travel throughout the year. Back in US, that amount would cover half my rent and nothing more.
Spot on Steven, some people over think it and have never lived here. It's totally different from a holiday. I can do under 1000 easy but everyones different. Me and you are the type that can do it mate. Back home is the real living on the bread line. This is Disney land. Thanks buddy.
Budgets are like Battle Plans. They never survive enemy contact. Going to the dentist for a root canal or a major medical expense can upset any budget. I set a minimum and always have at least double that for each month. Based upon my experience of living in Chiang Mai for more than 7 years at least $1000 to $1500 per month will allow for a decent life, with some extras and dental and medical expenses. As always “different strokes for different folks”. Also, “Be curious, not judge mental”.(Ted Lasso).
@@WalkAboutWayne In my years in CNX I have seen the same pattern. People arrive in CNX and are very happy for a few months. They stop planning and watch how they spend. Then reality hits and some panic. The best thing you said was "living here is not like a holiday". Many arrive when they are not ready to actually live here fulltime. Also, difficult for a westerner to live like a local 100% of the time. Once in a while one needs a burger and sometimes a bottle of wine(of course wine is very expensive in Thailand.). This video was well done, honest and informative.
It's been awhile Wayne. Thanks for another good one. I've been living on a shoe string budget for 20 years because I did my part to populate the world. "I can do!"
Beating a dead horse on this one...everyones different, spend what you can and want to...i pretty much fast forwarded thru this one :) Good seeing ya Wayne, take care!
If someone is staying long term I wouldn't suggest renting a Click for ~2k a month. You can buy a used one with 10,000 baht. So ~ 1000 a month including tyres etc.
@@WalkAboutWayne was my first holiday back to Thailand in 4 years so went a bit mad. I’m hoping to semi retire there in 5 years or so, hence I’m going to practice being thrifty when I return in October. (Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Koh Chang).
The internet in Chiang Mai is quite strong. Coffee shops also have free internet. If you want to get cheaper food prices, you should buy ingredients from the fresh market to cook yourself and you will get a lot. But if you don't have time to cook Also buy food from the fresh market which is quite cheaper than other places. 😊👍
Good advice and put plain and simple without all the usual crap. I come from the same background as you Wayne. Born in the UK living on a council estate you learn how to budget very fast. Then i moved to Australia as a kid and i've lived the last 50+ years here. I'm no cheap charlie but i still watch what i spend. I paid short time visit to Chiang Mai late in 2019 just before the shit hit the fan with Covid and i loved every minute of it. Get my pension in a few months time so decided to sell up and move my backside Thaiside and back to Chiang Mai later this year. I neither smoke or drink so $1,000US or $1,346AUS is very doable for me. A a you say it depends on the individual and how you want to live and how much you are prepared to spend. Health insurance could be a pain in the arse financially though? We will see come Nov/Dec I enjoy your channel keep it going 👍
Thanks Stuart , great to read your comment buddy. I hope the move to Chiang Mai goes well at the end of the year. Let's hope things get back to a little more normal by then. Yes, it all depends on the person. This budget is easily doable but only if someone can live a basic life. Hope the Health Insurance goes well. Cheers mate.
Sent last comment half way through your video. Now that I've seen it all I'm with you again on being in Thailand vs "home". I haven't lived in the U.S. in 20 yrs. & don't plan on ever returning. My worse fear is that guys like you let all the ppl I'm trying to get away from know how great it is in S.E. Asia & flood the place with FARANG! 👍🇹🇭
When i come over i always have £1,000 emergency money, but i have never had to send more than a couple of hundred out of it, i think it would be a push for me on $700 a month but it is cheap there i think you will always spend a little more than that the first month staying there , but it doable i know people who have been living there for years on around about that much great vlog Wayne, you always tell it how it is, know frills know crap just straight to the point that why your channel is growing well done
$700 is not for everyone Leila, i agree. I even didn't recommend 700. I think $1000 and up is a good starting point but $700 is doable and many people spend less. Thanks Leila, i always love reading your comments. ❤
$10 a day for food is actually a good budget. I could eat for $5 a day because I prefer the food from street vendors instead of going to restaurants, and you can eat very well for $1-2. But I like to cook some meals at home, which ironically is more expensive, so I spend $10-12 a day. Your budget is spot-on, I'm going to come in under $1000 a month and that's even including renting an airbnb instead of waiting until I arrived and then looking for an apartment, as you suggest. (I hope people take your advice, it will save them a lot of money.)
So glad you did this topic. Lots of people have really weird ideas about money and how far it can or can't go. I don't know how these people live or expect to live! I am surprised it's possible to get decent rooms for that cheap though.
Yes mate, some people have it in their head that it can't be done without even trying. I seen a room for 1000 yesterday, not the greatest but for 5- 6000 you can get a great room. Nice one
@@WalkAboutWayne I'm genuinely shocked at the price. I was quite prepared for 10000 but you're saying I can get a decent place for half that. So I could get access to a pool, my own bathroom and a big balcony for 5-6k? Does your place have a separate place you can sit away from your bed or is it more like a hotel room? A video on how to get these sorts of deals would be really good as I haven't seen anyone else do one like that.
Great video. I'll break down MY bills for anyone reading the comments. 20,000 baht a month rent - brand new big ass 3 bedrooms, 1 office, 3 bathroom house in Nong Hoi 1,300 - electric (2 ACs and fan on everyday) 850 - internet 1300 - unlimited phone plan 500 - water (drinking/home) I won a scooter (gas about 500 baht a month if I don't got a trip) Total=24,450 baht ($733) My shitty studio in America was $1000 a month just for rent...
Another great honest video Wayne good to see you on Paul's channel the other day I remember way back in the 90s living on the dole unemployment I had a little side line job after paying not much but every week I would put a 100 dollars down at local travel agent and after 3 months I had my airfare to Bangkok with a Domestic return airfare to koh samui. I would save around 1500 NZ d which was around 1 nzd " was 15 baht and I would go to Thailand for a month paying 100 baht a nite for a bungalow on the beach ⛱️ fried rice or pad Thai was 15 baht in the little restaurant pancakes for breakfast I had a little kettle were I made me tea and coffee I didn't have much money for beer but I was a stoner and those days you could buy weed at the bungalow 100 baht a packet remember I had no job back in New Zealand it was winter I was sitting by the beach eating ok few beers having a great time of course I couldn't do what most holiday makers were doing I never asked for anything but there were times people gave me beer etc I kept to myself when I was down to my last 1500 baht I headed back to Bangkok and flew home broke but content and I always had a few gifts for family nice tee shirts hammocks etc I did that 2 years in a row back then New Zealanders could get a three month visa on arrival happy days 919293
Hi Joel, great to read this comment mate. Your story is similar to mine. Work and save every penny, then go home skint. Thanks for coming over from Paul's channel buddy, great to have you on the channel. 👌
Hello Wayne a perfect explanation great advice and spot on budget is what you make it to each one's choice. Keep your realistic videos coming Well done Wayne Take Care
Thanks Wayne, I'm packing up to leave the UK and make my way to live in Thailand but I get the Jitters now and then but you have reassured me, great vid man.
Thanks for the info brev! I spent 8 months in Patong and met a woman and looking to start a life in Chiang mai when I return for the reasons you mentioned. Much cheaper than Phuket.
I love the background! Just curious...I'm an old Thailand hand, but it's been a while since I've been in the Kingdom. These days, can you live in Thailand without a residence visa? I'm American.
@@greencraig8570 Oh gotcha. Many people have done that for years but i would never count on that, especially if you was full blown living here. You could also go down the education route. When you say "live here" do you mean leave America for good, or live here for a few years?
I agree with everything that you said. Each individual is different. I did nothing fancy and found it difficult to spend more than $1200 per month. I do not drink so that helps.
Thanks Pat, i agree, spending over $1000 can be hard in Chiang Mai, especially just living day to day life. I forgot to mention alcohol in the vlog. I think this budget would allow for a few beers but not many. I don't drink much either buddy. The bars are not really my scene. Thanks Pat.
Hiya wayne, I’m loving these vlogs mate…. Have followed you from the beginning but somehow lost you and have had to resub! Very gladly! I wonder if you can touch on a subject for me…. Our kids are homeschooled in the UK and we would want to keep that the same! Do you know if me and the mrs get ED visas can the children “accompany” us? Without having to get their own ED visas! They are 6/8 and we don’t want them enrolled in any sort of establishment!
Thanks for liking the vlogs and finding my channel again. I'm not 100% sure how the ED visa would work with children mate. I'm sure I've seen that it would be ok (with some paperwork involved) but it would be best to contact an agent buddy. They would know for sure.
I am jealous , unfortunately I still have to work and need to eat until my two best friends pass away . I wish I can be there , the rent here is so expensive
Great topic Wayne - good breakdown , keeping life simple , no fish fingers & frozen chips - plenty of choices as you say in all aspects of Chiangmai 👊😎👌🙏👍
Thanks for sharing! For me and other "older" persons who will need a retirement visa, it cost 1900 Bath to renew it. On the other hand, the older we get the more in health insurance we pay. So for a very good insurance that can cover a bypass surgery etc, add 100-200 UD$ a month depending on the amount of deductible you choose. That's for 5 Mill Bath coverage each year and 50K deductible each incident. When you get over 70, the price can easily double. With my $2000+ retirement in about 2-3 years from now, I can easily save up money for a new motorbike approx 300-400cc or a fairly new used small car within a year if I choose to live frugal almost like most Thai people would do. I say almost, because most of us will love to have 2-3 western style dinner and a small Heineken/Leo a month as a treat. And still I will not need much more than about 30-35 000 Bath a month to live for, including a very good health insurance the first 5 years.
Great comment Svein! Yes, the health insurance would be on top of this, and as you mentioned, the older you get the more expensive. It could still be done on a relatively low budget though. It all depends on the individual. I live a basic lifestyle, so it's easy for me. 👌 Thanks again
I am not on a budget but I look at prices. People go into convenience stores and spend 150 baht on snacks or specialty coffees and a muffin for 200 baht when you can have a meal for 40-50 baht.... keep on Walkin' About, keep on singing...
That's right mate, people can spend that in 7/11 just on snacks. Still so many ways to eat cheap here and live well. Thanks man, more singing will be on the way 🤣🤣
I'm not really to sure at the moment Sarah, i have many friends that are teachers and some of them was struggling over the pandemic. I think things are picking up again now though. Thanks.
Long time I havent seen you around...seems its too hot to be around the city these days 😅 Whats the name of your condo? Will like to check it out...seems great deal and many ammenities included. Cheers man!
Hey man, i seen you around on your electric scooter a few times. I was wizzing by on the motorbike. I can't really say where i live at this time mate but loads of great deals south of the city. Hope to see you around in the park soon mate.
Why is it $90 a month for a visa? According to the immigration fee is only $2,000 Thb ($60 usd) (to pay for that retirement visa fee, which is one year
Paid 78.00 us dollars for Visa and 166.00 (6000 baht) for a nice sized studio with a new gym and huge property long pool. 15..00 (450 baht ) for phone. 52 00 for a bike (1700) new yahama gt 125. I am block from the ocean in jomtien. I spend about 700. Never more than 900. Or 1000. Live ok. But 1500.00 dollars would be better. Dont be a cheap Charlie be a value victor.
I love the vlogs like this when you tell it like it is, so much more real and entertaining than other budget vlogs. No Starbucks?!! 😂 “I can get on my motorbike, drive into the mountains” exactly! Just booked my flight for September, happy days are here again! 🥳
We should chat. I'm planning on moving there in 3 years and trying to prepare. I'll have more than what your talking about and I'll not go into the dating seen.
But if the visa is now more expensive doesnt that mean its now NOT possible to live on $700? Is that for the ED visa? And does that include the cost of the course you have to do to get the visa?
Thanks for waffling 555. My plan will be budget of 1,500 U.S. dollars including med. Insurance and a little more travel. That let's me save 500 dollars per month.
Thanks Wayne. Down to earth advice. I've been living in Chiang Mai for 3 years now for about 800$ and lived for 12 years in BKK on 750$. Minimal Social Security. A little tough at times, but doable.
Thanks James. I agree with you 100%. It's not easy but totally doable.
Hi James......how long can I stay?
Great video, Wayne!
I lived on about 1100 a month in Chiang Mai, and I lived like royalty. Now that I know my way around the city, I can go to a market and grab my groceries there very easily.
BTW, I was just told by my boss that I am cleared to work as a digital nomad. Any place in the world, whenever I am ready! I have some things to do first, but I'll be back in Chiang Mai once things are cleared!
That's great news Beverly, you'll soon be living the good life. Good luck and hope you can come over soon. Thanks.
If only all budget videos could be this clear and simple with no BS. I can totally understand why you haven’t want to do a more detailed budget video Wayne. But you did yourself proud on this one mate.
Nice one 👍🙏
Thanks Simon dude, it was great reading you're comment :)
@@WalkAboutWayne I agree. Also, if you watch in the mornings like I do, it's not as obnoxious up and down volume and sounds like other VLOGS. No opening like Gangbusters...
Long live Walkabout Wayne!!!!
Thank you. I absolutely agree. I am very content here in Bangkok on about 28k baht a month. I enjoy so many activities that are free, yoga in the park, birding, concerts in the park, museums, game nights etc. I pay 10k a month for my 1 bdrm with my own washing machine, pool, gym and close to the BTS. It's a mindset to just let go of thinking your deprived if you don't have Starbucks. Thanks for the vid.
Hi Anne, so good reading you're comment. Like you mentioned, half of it is all mindset, people have it in their head before they even try living on a budget. It's doable and it's pretty easy. Sounds like you have a good basic life down in Bangkok. Thanks Anne.
hey, what complex was you living in please
Thanks for that breakdown. That’s very realistic and useful info. Much appreciated. You’d have to be nuts to pay for Starbucks with all the great coffee available in Chiangmai!
Cheers Earl. Chuck that Starbucks out the window mate 🤣🤣
Very inspirational video brother, enjoyed it a lot. I'm from the UK & moved to Thailand in October. I was always worried about budgets and thinking about could i do it or not. My £1000 per month budget seems to be working very well for me since i arrived & my quality of life has improved 10 fold.
Thanks Tommo, nice to hear from you mate. Glad to hear you're enjoying life in Thailand buddy.
Grand a month is a nice life...
I'm on $1000/ month ... Want for nothing..
Good info, I have been here in Thailand for 20 years and I live on about 400 dollars. I live 10 floors up with an ocean view in a nice well kept building. I do just fine with what I have coming in. I eat at home, and I do not drink or hang out in bars and I do not smoke. I can't tell you how many friends that have died because they drank themselves to death. If you just landed it ain't going to happen on that amount of money. You need about 4 years to learn the ropes. You would need at least a grand a month to get started. Wayne stressed having some back up money for unexpected expense, if at a bare minimum have enough for a flight home you may need it. Good work Wayne now I am going to watch your other videos.
Wow $400 , that's amazing! Just goes to show that it can be done. I know a few people here in Chiang Mai on a similar budget and they seem happy enough. Always worth having that backup money and it sure does get easier with time. Thanks Russ.
Great vid Wayne, right to the point. I had a nice life on 20,000bht a month when I lived in Cha Am, that included rent of 6K, utilities, a massage a week and the odd beer, also eating a mix of thai and and western food. I'd bought a scooter so didn't have to rent one and I don't smoke. I was on retirement stay so had 800K bht in the bank, and that's really important as a back up emergency fund. Yes, if you want to go out boozing every night and paying for "company" then you will need around 40K. The difference, as you say, is that living somewhere is different from being on holiday!
Hi Tanya, great to read you're comment. Yes, it can be done easily for the right person. Boozing and women would put that budget up alot, i agree. If someone is sensible though and had the odd drink, then it's a good life. 🙏
I love it when you waffle!!! The wisdom waffle is both entertaining and useful!
Thank you! I'm glad my waffling makes some sort of sense 🤣
i stayed in Thailand for 6 months on a budget of £600/month, no probs at all.
Nice one! Yes, it's not to difficult with some discipline. I find it easy to live on a budget also.
No frills and straight to the point. Take a bow sir.
Longtime no see Suburban! Hope you well mate. Thanks buddy.
Thank you Wayne! That was very helpful!:)
Thanks 🙏
$700USD per month in Chiang Mai is basically survival mode. If I want to survive, I'd stay home. I want to LIVE in Thailand cause my dollar will go much further than back home. Where I live, a one-bedroom condo in the city is $1800USD, that is excluding all other living expenses (fuel, electricity, car insurance, grocery, etc.). I feel that if my budget is anywhere between $1200-1800/month. It is already a WIN. Also, I would prefer to have a private condo to myself rather than sharing rooms. That alone is roughly $600USD for 2 bedrooms in a relatively new building in a central location in Chiang Mai.
I wouldn't say survival, because you can make it work, very basic i would call it. I just looked at a nice single condo yesterday buddy, $200 with 2 bedrooms. I agree with you though, around $1500 would be the sweet spot. Thanks.
Solid brother. My wife and I used to live in Chiang Mai for $700-1000 AUD a month. Actually quite easy if you're not into Starbucks, going out drinking all the time, etc. We used to buy bulk veggies at Royal Park, fruit at the local market, and odds and ends from Rimping or Central Food Hall. We rarely ate out because we like to make our own meals most of the time. I'm not sure if you know this, but Pai can also be cheaper. We lived there about 8 years ago for $500 a month. The local market up there is mega cheap. Anyway I'll stop waffling. Loved the breakdown brother.
Did that $500 include rent?
@@JackLondon12 yes.
That's good
Awesome Jason, just goes to show that life here can be good on a small budget. Knowing where to shop really helps yes. I found Chiang Rai to be slightly cheaper than Chiang Mai also. Thanks mate.
Yes mate, the rent included in $500
Thank you .I was there 3 years ago .I love it.I am coming back
Thanks Fernando 🙏
I'm in complete agreement with you on lifestyle. You mention Starbucks & point out better options. It's beyond me how ppl can go to Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia...& eat McDonald's, KFC, pizza...WTF? The food in Thailand is outstanding! I like to drink, but not in bars. A few at home or a brew or two in one of the food stalls. I like to live on as little as possible without giving up quality of life; it's not hard. We see eye to eye on this. You are not cheap! You live well & within your means. More power to you! Good one. 👍🇹🇭💸
Thanks! Nice to hear from someone similar and knows how to live cheap but a good lifestyle. I find it easy also to live a good basic life. Thanks again buddy!
Oh, and i 100% agree about the western food.
yeah. If I never see another American fast food chain it will be too soon!
I lived in Japan back in 2013 and I said the same thing regarding western food. Japanese food quality and service was light years beyond what we have in America.
Cheers Wayne.
The presentation is useful and straight-forward. Fabulous city.
Thanks Craig 👍
thanks for the info....do you cook your own food or eat out only?.....thanks again
Thanks Daniel, I never cook , I make my breakfast in my condo and eat out 2 times a day. 👍
Wayne, is that FALL ,
the season taking place behind you???
All the leaves on the ground as well as actively falling. Nice videos
Can't remember the time of year mate. Thailand seasons are only, hot and roasting hot. Thanks 👍
A really good video. Thanks!
Thank you!
Very informative. Big Ta, Wayne.
Big thanks
Nice video Wayne . Gonna sit down now and see how much I spend in a month. Take it easy buddy.
Take it easy man 👌
thanks Wayne , you just answered questions I had not even asked yet
No worries Stuart mate.
Good info Wayne. I remember those Birdseye fish fingers well. Your pool would be a welcome relief this time of year.
Cheers Randy! I must admit, we got no water in the pool at the minute 🤣🤣
Realistic budget mate. You spend according to your living style. Minimalism is a blessing. Great background and excellent volume. Thanks Wayne!
Thanks Buddy 👌
I came across you're Chanel via "chai travel". liked the topic on the basic budget.👍
Hey Kc, thanks for coming over. 👍
Good breakdown of expenses. Could you do a breakdown of your visa costs. 35,000Baht seems high. Does that include using an agent?
Thank you! 35k is cheap compared to what it was. I don't think you'll find a year for to much cheaper these days. They take care of it all for you, yes. Thanks.
Hi Wayne. Good honest video , I’ve subscribed and thumbed up on the back of it. I’m a Yorkshire lad , so careful !!! Could we spend 5 weeks in and around chaing mai ? I’d consider renting a Y’spark for the duration and staying a bit out of centre in the countryside.. could we just get a flight and sort when we get there do you think ? Maybe like you said , book into a hotel for a couple of nights then head out on the bike .. my worry would be that we might not find anywhere available straight away .. we are thinking of coming end of Jan and back 1st week in March. Any help /thoughts would be appreciated. Many Thanks. Neil.
Hi Neil, thanks for the sub mate. You could spend however much time you wanted in Chiang Mai, for sure. Yes, my advice is always book a hotel for a few nights and head out looking for a place. Always places available, especially if your looking outside the city. I would prob book a hotel for nearly a week and have a good look around.
Cheers mate
Perfectly explained, especially comparing long term expenses to those you incur when here for just a holiday. Just by being frugal, you can live a great life in a beautiful place like Chiang Mai. My costs are very comparable to yours. 25k allows me to cover all expenses , as well as have money for domestic travel throughout the year. Back in US, that amount would cover half my rent and nothing more.
Spot on Steven, some people over think it and have never lived here. It's totally different from a holiday. I can do under 1000 easy but everyones different. Me and you are the type that can do it mate. Back home is the real living on the bread line. This is Disney land. Thanks buddy.
Budgets are like Battle Plans. They never survive enemy contact. Going to the dentist for a root canal or a major medical expense can upset any budget. I set a minimum and always have at least double that for each month. Based upon my experience of living in Chiang Mai for more than 7 years at least $1000 to $1500 per month will allow for a decent life, with some extras and dental and medical expenses. As always “different strokes for different folks”. Also, “Be curious, not judge mental”.(Ted Lasso).
You know your stuff Mike, spot on buddy. You can live here cheap but always need that back up cash. Thanks mate.
@@WalkAboutWayne In my years in CNX I have seen the same pattern. People arrive in CNX and are very happy for a few months. They stop planning and watch how they spend. Then reality hits and some panic. The best thing you said was "living here is not like a holiday". Many arrive when they are not ready to actually live here fulltime. Also, difficult for a westerner to live like a local 100% of the time. Once in a while one needs a burger and sometimes a bottle of wine(of course wine is very expensive in Thailand.). This video was well done, honest and informative.
You all never talk about Visas why?
@@Skycop51 visa is included in the price buddy 👍
@@Skycop51 elephant 🐘 in the room... Budget buster...
Thank you for information great help from Scott new Zealand
Thanks Scott 👌
It's been awhile Wayne. Thanks for another good one. I've been living on a shoe string budget for 20 years because I did my part to populate the world. "I can do!"
Long time no see ! Hahaha i hope you happy though mate. Nice to hear from you again.
Great content wayne this is the best video i have seen on this topic.
Thanks Julie 🙏
Beating a dead horse on this one...everyones different, spend what you can and want to...i pretty much fast forwarded thru this one :) Good seeing ya Wayne, take care!
Nice one buddy! Thanks for passing through. 👍
Lucille!!!!!
If someone is staying long term I wouldn't suggest renting a Click for ~2k a month. You can buy a used one with 10,000 baht. So ~ 1000 a month including tyres etc.
That's very true mate, it would be better to buy if staying here long term.
That was very helpful, thank you.
👍👍
I'm going to try budget on my next holiday. last one I was spending way to much £100-£200 a day. great advice.
That's a big budget for a day mate. It's probably normal if you was here just for a short holiday though. Thanks mate.
@@WalkAboutWayne was my first holiday back to Thailand in 4 years so went a bit mad. I’m hoping to semi retire there in 5 years or so, hence I’m going to practice being thrifty when I return in October. (Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Koh Chang).
@@marcusbww I guess you spent a lot of time in bars,easily done.
@@Coxy-b34 rumbled..😂
@@marcusbww 🤣
Great vlog Wayne. Captain bird's-eye lol. Thank you for your insight. It's always appreciated. Have fun in CM 👍😊
Captain Bird's Eye 🤣🤣 Thanks mate.
@@WalkAboutWayne funny 🤣. Thank you Wayne 👍😊
The internet in Chiang Mai is quite strong. Coffee shops also have free internet. If you want to get cheaper food prices, you should buy ingredients from the fresh market to cook yourself and you will get a lot. But if you don't have time to cook Also buy food from the fresh market which is quite cheaper than other places. 😊👍
Yes, great internet in Chiang Mai and Muang Mai market is a great place to buy ingredients. Thanks
Good advice and put plain and simple without all the usual crap. I come from the same background as you Wayne. Born in the UK living on a council estate you learn how to budget very fast. Then i moved to Australia as a kid and i've lived the last 50+ years here. I'm no cheap charlie but i still watch what i spend. I paid short time visit to Chiang Mai late in 2019 just before the shit hit the fan with Covid and i loved every minute of it. Get my pension in a few months time so decided to sell up and move my backside Thaiside and back to Chiang Mai later this year. I neither smoke or drink so $1,000US or $1,346AUS is very doable for me. A a you say it depends on the individual and how you want to live and how much you are prepared to spend. Health insurance could be a pain in the arse financially though? We will see come Nov/Dec I enjoy your channel keep it going 👍
Thanks Stuart , great to read your comment buddy. I hope the move to Chiang Mai goes well at the end of the year. Let's hope things get back to a little more normal by then. Yes, it all depends on the person. This budget is easily doable but only if someone can live a basic life. Hope the Health Insurance goes well. Cheers mate.
Sent last comment half way through your video. Now that I've seen it all I'm with you again on being in Thailand vs "home". I haven't lived in the U.S. in 20 yrs. & don't plan on ever returning. My worse fear is that guys like you let all the ppl I'm trying to get away from know how great it is in S.E. Asia & flood the place with FARANG! 👍🇹🇭
Yes, that's why i like the north, i can get away from people easy and just head to the mountains. I prefer to live a quiet life.
@@WalkAboutWayne love the options: Chiang Mai, Bangkok, the islands...very different places.
Thanks for sharing Your information...Be Well
Thanks Larry 👍
When i come over i always have £1,000 emergency money, but i have never had to send more than a couple of hundred out of it, i think it would be a push for me on $700 a month but it is cheap there i think you will always spend a little more than that the first month staying there , but it doable i know people who have been living there for years on around about that much great vlog Wayne, you always tell it how it is, know frills know crap just straight to the point that why your channel is growing well done
$700 is not for everyone Leila, i agree. I even didn't recommend 700. I think $1000 and up is a good starting point but $700 is doable and many people spend less. Thanks Leila, i always love reading your comments. ❤
GOOD INFO WAYNE!
Thanks Charles 👌
Finally, thank you
👍👍👍
Great blog like always mate.
Thanks David 👍
$10 a day for food is actually a good budget. I could eat for $5 a day because I prefer the food from street vendors instead of going to restaurants, and you can eat very well for $1-2. But I like to cook some meals at home, which ironically is more expensive, so I spend $10-12 a day. Your budget is spot-on, I'm going to come in under $1000 a month and that's even including renting an airbnb instead of waiting until I arrived and then looking for an apartment, as you suggest. (I hope people take your advice, it will save them a lot of money.)
Thanks Becky :) Yes $10 - $15 a day here would be a great budget, can get all you need for that. ❤❤
Absolutely. I love the street food. I think that I could live on that for a very long time.
Great video Wayne, thanks.
Thanks Paul.
So glad you did this topic. Lots of people have really weird ideas about money and how far it can or can't go. I don't know how these people live or expect to live! I am surprised it's possible to get decent rooms for that cheap though.
Yes mate, some people have it in their head that it can't be done without even trying. I seen a room for 1000 yesterday, not the greatest but for 5- 6000 you can get a great room. Nice one
@@WalkAboutWayne I'm genuinely shocked at the price. I was quite prepared for 10000 but you're saying I can get a decent place for half that. So I could get access to a pool, my own bathroom and a big balcony for 5-6k? Does your place have a separate place you can sit away from your bed or is it more like a hotel room? A video on how to get these sorts of deals would be really good as I haven't seen anyone else do one like that.
Just found your channel 👍 keep em coming
Cheers Tony! Welcome to the channel mate. 👍
Thanks Wayne, great video. Very helpful.
Thank you 👌
Great video. I'll break down MY bills for anyone reading the comments.
20,000 baht a month rent - brand new big ass 3 bedrooms, 1 office, 3 bathroom house in Nong Hoi
1,300 - electric (2 ACs and fan on everyday)
850 - internet
1300 - unlimited phone plan
500 - water (drinking/home)
I won a scooter (gas about 500 baht a month if I don't got a trip)
Total=24,450 baht ($733)
My shitty studio in America was $1000 a month just for rent...
dont you pay for eating ? ... is your visa is for free ?
Nice one Jim, sounds good mate. 👍
@@salamhamandy4927 Visa is free. I teach.
Food is maybe $300
@@jimsinthailandso your total is 1000?
Another great honest video Wayne good to see you on Paul's channel the other day I remember way back in the 90s living on the dole unemployment I had a little side line job after paying not much but every week I would put a 100 dollars down at local travel agent and after 3 months I had my airfare to Bangkok with a Domestic return airfare to koh samui. I would save around 1500 NZ d which was around 1 nzd " was 15 baht and I would go to Thailand for a month paying 100 baht a nite for a bungalow on the beach ⛱️ fried rice or pad Thai was 15 baht in the little restaurant pancakes for breakfast I had a little kettle were I made me tea and coffee I didn't have much money for beer but I was a stoner and those days you could buy weed at the bungalow 100 baht a packet remember I had no job back in New Zealand it was winter I was sitting by the beach eating ok few beers having a great time of course I couldn't do what most holiday makers were doing I never asked for anything but there were times people gave me beer etc I kept to myself when I was down to my last 1500 baht I headed back to Bangkok and flew home broke but content and I always had a few gifts for family nice tee shirts hammocks etc I did that 2 years in a row back then New Zealanders could get a three month visa on arrival happy days 919293
Hi Joel, great to read this comment mate. Your story is similar to mine. Work and save every penny, then go home skint. Thanks for coming over from Paul's channel buddy, great to have you on the channel. 👌
Hello Wayne a perfect explanation great advice and spot on budget is what you make it to each one's choice. Keep your realistic videos coming Well done Wayne Take Care
Thanks Sue, glad you liked the vlog. 🙏
Great vlog mate. Straight to point 👍🏻
Nice one Lee 👌
Thank you for the information. We love Thailand too!
Thanks Uwe 🙏
@@WalkAboutWayne Thank you too, hope we can be connect. Best wishes Siri and Uwe
Thanks Wayne, I'm packing up to leave the UK and make my way to live in Thailand but I get the Jitters now and then but you have reassured me, great vid man.
Just take that leap mate, sample the good life :) Thanks.
Live once
thank you wayne this was very helpful
No worries Ron :)
I usually ignore budget vids. But, this one is spot on. Good job Wayne !
Thanks Bradley, it's just the facts mate. Not everyone can live on it, but it is 100% doable. Thanks mate
Good insight to basic living in Chiang Mai
Thanks Ken. The cheap life is available here but it's not for everyone.
@@WalkAboutWayne I like a bit of luxury myself, normally stay in Bangarang Gym to train for 3 weeks and use a scooter to come into town each evening
Sounds good Ken 👍
Thanks for the info brev! I spent 8 months in Patong and met a woman and looking to start a life in Chiang mai when I return for the reasons you mentioned. Much cheaper than Phuket.
No worries! I've never been to Phuket, but have heard it's alot more expensive. Chiang Mai life can still be very cheap.
Exchange USD 1: 31 USD700 around 22K Baht would be tight.
Exchange USD 1: 37 USD700 around 26K Baht would be fine.
👍👍
Well presented Wayne. My rule you always spend more than you think, always! (But usually shes worth it 555) take it easy man.
That is very true mate. It's a 100% certain you'll always need more. 🤣🤣🤣🤣
I love the background! Just curious...I'm an old Thailand hand, but it's been a while since I've been in the Kingdom. These days, can you live in Thailand without a residence visa? I'm American.
You would need a retirement visa ( if that's what you mean )
@@WalkAboutWayne OK, thanks. I got that part, just wondering if there was a way around that. Like leaving the Kingdom every 90 days, etc.
@@greencraig8570 Oh gotcha. Many people have done that for years but i would never count on that, especially if you was full blown living here. You could also go down the education route. When you say "live here" do you mean leave America for good, or live here for a few years?
Do you have live Q & A's
I don't do lives, maybe in the future.
I agree with everything that you said. Each individual is different. I did nothing fancy and found it difficult to spend more than $1200 per month. I do not drink so that helps.
Thanks Pat, i agree, spending over $1000 can be hard in Chiang Mai, especially just living day to day life. I forgot to mention alcohol in the vlog. I think this budget would allow for a few beers but not many. I don't drink much either buddy. The bars are not really my scene. Thanks Pat.
The average cost of living is less than 600$ in Chiang Mai tho
You, my friend, are a very good person.👍
Thank you Alberto 👌
" Tell it how it is Wayne as Honest as allways "
Thanks Tim buddy 👌
Good one, thanks
Nice one Michael
Hiya wayne, I’m loving these vlogs mate…. Have followed you from the beginning but somehow lost you and have had to resub! Very gladly! I wonder if you can touch on a subject for me…. Our kids are homeschooled in the UK and we would want to keep that the same! Do you know if me and the mrs get ED visas can the children “accompany” us? Without having to get their own ED visas! They are 6/8 and we don’t want them enrolled in any sort of establishment!
Thanks for liking the vlogs and finding my channel again. I'm not 100% sure how the ED visa would work with children mate. I'm sure I've seen that it would be ok (with some paperwork involved) but it would be best to contact an agent buddy. They would know for sure.
Would love to know the name of the condo where you're staying. I'm currently paying 12k a month, and I totally dislike my room 😞
Loads of places around for 5 to 8k mate. Checkout small sois in Thai neighborhoods. Hope you find a place you like.👍
Good talk 😎👍
Cheers mate 👌
Loved the talk on costs. Especially when you called out the cost of a girlfriend 😂! Good stuff, thank you man!
Thanks buddy :)
Is there a terminal 21 with a food court in Chang Mai … amazing food and prices in the one in Patts
No terminal 21 but loads of Food Courts here.
I am jealous , unfortunately I still have to work and need to eat until my two best friends pass away . I wish I can be there , the rent here is so expensive
Oh, well I hope your 2 friends don't pass away 😮. I'm guessing they are sick? I hope you can get to Thailand one day.
Hi Wayne,
Excellent vlog, very instructional, honest, and to the point. Thank you. Hey, what's the name of the temple you filmed this at?
Thanks guys! I can never find the English name of this temple. It's just a small soi temple. Loads of them all over the city. Thanks.
@@WalkAboutWayne All good. Thanks.
Where did you find your place for 5000 baht/mo? Where’s a good site to search for housing? I’m looking at going to Chiangmai Mai this winter
Go out on foot once you get here Micah, that's how you'll find the best deals. Book a hotel for a few nights and then go out searching. 👍
Great topic Wayne - good breakdown , keeping life simple , no fish fingers & frozen chips - plenty of choices as you say in all aspects of Chiangmai 👊😎👌🙏👍
No Captain Bird's Eye fish fingers mate haha. Cheers Ant.
@@WalkAboutWayne That's your Smart cash back... 😄
very informative, thx. the dream could be possible
👌👌👌
How much is fly spray?! 😂 nice vlog Wayne, keep em coming bud
🤣 Damn flys never leave me alone. I must smell mate 🤣
Thanks for sharing! For me and other "older" persons who will need a retirement visa, it cost 1900 Bath to renew it. On the other hand, the older we get the more in health insurance we pay. So for a very good insurance that can cover a bypass surgery etc, add 100-200 UD$ a month depending on the amount of deductible you choose. That's for 5 Mill Bath coverage each year and 50K deductible each incident. When you get over 70, the price can easily double. With my $2000+ retirement in about 2-3 years from now, I can easily save up money for a new motorbike approx 300-400cc or a fairly new used small car within a year if I choose to live frugal almost like most Thai people would do. I say almost, because most of us will love to have 2-3 western style dinner and a small Heineken/Leo a month as a treat. And still I will not need much more than about 30-35 000 Bath a month to live for, including a very good health insurance the first 5 years.
Great comment Svein! Yes, the health insurance would be on top of this, and as you mentioned, the older you get the more expensive. It could still be done on a relatively low budget though. It all depends on the individual. I live a basic lifestyle, so it's easy for me.
👌
Thanks again
I am not on a budget but I look at prices. People go into convenience stores and spend 150 baht on snacks or specialty coffees and a muffin for 200 baht when you can have a meal for 40-50 baht.... keep on Walkin' About, keep on singing...
That's right mate, people can spend that in 7/11 just on snacks. Still so many ways to eat cheap here and live well. Thanks man, more singing will be on the way 🤣🤣
I'm curious to know...did you have to save up money to live in Chiang Mai or how does the financials work?
Savings, and a few projects that give me a passive income mate.
Love my sports can you get sky tv and can someone set it up for me thank you from Scott new Zealand
You can get channels from back home, but you'd need to have a look at your options.
You are very down to earth. But, I definitely couldn't get by without A/C. What about health insurance?
Many types of health insurance, all depends on what you want. Thanks.
What's the job market like there?
I'm not really to sure at the moment Sarah, i have many friends that are teachers and some of them was struggling over the pandemic. I think things are picking up again now though. Thanks.
Live like the locals! The best way to keep the cost down!
That's right Peter 👍
Great info. Thank you Wayne! Keep smiling man, keep smiling!!
Cheers Andrew 👌
Long time I havent seen you around...seems its too hot to be around the city these days 😅
Whats the name of your condo? Will like to check it out...seems great deal and many ammenities included.
Cheers man!
Hey man, i seen you around on your electric scooter a few times. I was wizzing by on the motorbike. I can't really say where i live at this time mate but loads of great deals south of the city. Hope to see you around in the park soon mate.
Why is it $90 a month for a visa?
According to the immigration fee is only $2,000 Thb ($60 usd) (to pay for that retirement visa fee, which is one year
Fees change every day and different agents charge different fees. Also, I'm not talking about a retirement visa.👍
Paid 78.00 us dollars for Visa and 166.00 (6000 baht) for a nice sized studio with a new gym and huge property long pool. 15..00 (450 baht ) for phone. 52 00 for a bike (1700) new yahama gt 125. I am block from the ocean in jomtien. I spend about 700. Never more than 900. Or 1000. Live ok. But 1500.00 dollars would be better. Dont be a cheap Charlie be a value victor.
Nice one 👍
I love the vlogs like this when you tell it like it is, so much more real and entertaining than other budget vlogs. No Starbucks?!! 😂 “I can get on my motorbike, drive into the mountains” exactly! Just booked my flight for September, happy days are here again! 🥳
Thanks Rebecca! I think these are my most natural vlogs to do, when i just say what i feel and waffle 🤣. Happy days 🙏
Can you mention the name and location of the place you were staying at please?
Where i live is one of the things i keep to myself. Sorry.
What kind of visa do we need for one year ?
Education or Volunteer 👍
@@WalkAboutWayne thanks
We should chat. I'm planning on moving there in 3 years and trying to prepare. I'll have more than what your talking about and I'll not go into the dating seen.
Hi Jennifer, great to hear your planning for Thailand. You can live a nice basic life with $1000.
Yes 700 a month would be OK. But your 100% right you need back up .Great video m8 .thanks .
Thanks Harry mate 👌
But if the visa is now more expensive doesnt that mean its now NOT possible to live on $700? Is that for the ED visa? And does that include the cost of the course you have to do to get the visa?
I think i included the visa cost in this vlog, but i can't remember. Visa charges haven't change since i did this.
Helpfull.
Thanks 👍
Thanks for waffling 555. My plan will be budget of 1,500 U.S. dollars including med. Insurance and a little more travel. That let's me save 500 dollars per month.
$1,500 would be a great budget mate, especially if you wanted to travel around aswell. Thanks mate.
Thank you 🥭
Thanks Michael 👍