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Oidar
10-12-11, 05:31
I've read a few times that it's not easy for the average dude to find a job in BKK, besides teaching English. What though if you have a good MBA from a reputable school? Is it then possible to find a good white-collar job in a foreign company, even without speaking thai?It is possible but not on the ground in BKK. You would have to find it or get recruited from abroad. Which would probably bring up the question,"Why hot and dirty Bangkok?" People here with the types of job you mention, are just lucky. They probably had no plans to go to Thailand, before the opportunity was presented to them.

However in today's world an MBA aint shit. Everybody has one. The type of job you mention would still pay less, than if you were REAL teacher, working at a high end international school.

Dash Riprock
10-15-11, 13:36
That's the route I took. It's not for everyone, and it's a huge mess or crater if you fail. But for those that make it (I think the average is 1 in 10 or worse, if you go by the averages of new businesses that fail in the first 2-3 years) , it can be a rather nice life on relatively 'easy street' once you finally have zero debt or at least a comfy capital to debt ratio and get your low cost local labor 'clicking' finally making whatever product or providing whatever service that your business specializes in.

Keeniu
03-30-12, 11:37
I had my prescription glasses made in BKK in a matter of hours, and with a bit of special frame (reading glasses, with foldable frame)

I just picked up one shop in sukhumvit not far from Soi 33.

There are plenty of opticians and lot, if not only all, offer deals where you pay the second glasses with a 50% discount.Chinatown BKK has heaps of Chinese imports. If ground zero is http://checkinnchinatown.com/ For reading glass wholesale shops. Must be 50 or so of them. Middle of no-where but for 850 bt fair value. All around here reading glasses imports mostly 100bt and up for standard rack sizes- oh lots of knock-off sunglasses too. Down the road is 'Hardware' street selling well hardware, but there is also a key-cutter that does complex keys. This is the place for landlords with the DIY bug.

Keeniu
04-17-12, 15:06
I have looked at several businesses. My observations.

Finance / Housing / Money advisers and consultants. Good luck, lots of them, as this is the first choice for people not wanting to 'work'.

The successful ones give bad advice, high one off turnover and keep the commission. Can't be choosy about customers, and it not good to tell the truth as it is, and loose a sale may be good ones YMMV, but lots of Russian speakers in this segment scooping the easy money.

Shop Houses.

The most stable profitable one was run by an astute American that had the rooms full long term boarding 'English Teachers' staying at his place long term, and 'day trading'. Want a room, wait 6 months. Apparently when vibe was such that (Americans wanted to cluster together, and lowest price was not it. It was the leads and local info etc. Yes there was a bar downstairs but it was low key. He sold Mexican food of sorts, not for great profit, but more to attract long term stayers. He said had high dreams, opened something 4 times as big, but downsized 3 times, well away from the best positions. Ruthless, but saw reality, and that there is a 'perfect size' that does not attract attention.

In LK the 'size' factor was about right, some failed badly, some do ok, but the best ones pull in ONE nationality, and lay on events.

I saw a few failed places in the middle bit, the lesson is expat with best (insert food of country) alone is unlikely to make it.

Attention to cleaning. Not just a wipe over. Was also an underestimated factor. New kids on the block have to beat established and skilled operators. A tough call. Those with near 100% occupancy rate. Are doing it right.

I saw many location open big on prime positions. Many failed, some made it big, but were then squeezed by the locals. Those good managers all got headaches from the locals. Running 20 staff is hard work. So going big is not a good move, not till you have learned to play. If you must go big, if you can can get a lawyer to get a mortgage from a wealthy Thai national with investment property overseas, only then protected from a swindle. This is difficult to find a 'swap', so lawyers offer lesser schemes. As Thailand has no real oil. Gazing ahead. Things may change in the next 10 years.

I am told running a restaurant in China with no local foodstuffs (locals think local food contaminated) may work. But would be stomped on for political reasons. Next is a tea house with westerners serving Chinese patrons. They want to be waited on and in private eating rooms (Money in cn is phenomenal). There are a few Indians carving this segment out, but even they complain about trading conditions and rent. And still get to work 12 hour days. For high intensity service industries.

Col Law
05-27-12, 07:04
Where can good quality copy clothing be purchased in Pattaya now? Thanks

Mr Enternational
05-27-12, 07:40
Where can good quality copy clothing be purchased in Pattaya now? ThanksWhat type of copy clothing are you looking for? Send me a PM.

CesarRomero
05-28-12, 22:31
I am heading to LOS for my 55th birthday and am considering retiring in three years in either in Thailand or P. I. I have read this forum and the P. I. Forum quite extensively and would like some feedback. What are the advantages of Thailand or P. I. For an American Ex-Pat on a fair sized (45k or so USD) retirement?

Thanks for the wisdom.

The Joker

Col Law
05-31-12, 22:30
Does anyone recall the Thai music bar on the end ot the soi 2 complex called Kum Punn, does anyone know if it has been moved to any where else in Pattaya or if there is a comparable bar inside Pattaya please give details? I always found it broke the ice with a non English speaking girl and appreciated by her

BionicMan
05-31-12, 22:57
Does anyone recall the Thai music bar on the end ot the soi 2 complex called Kum Punn, does anyone know if it has been moved to any where else in Pattaya or if there is a comparable bar inside Pattaya please give details? I always found it broke the ice with a non English speaking girl and appreciated by herMaybe posting this on hte Pattaya forum will be of more help to you

DjJack76
06-01-12, 19:59
I'm not intimately familiar with Phuket, but I've been there once and I know it is expensive. Why retire there? For the 5000 / month which Wolvenvacht says gets you rudimentary accommodations in Phuket, I believe you could get a decent room with air conditioning and hot water in Pattaya, and for even less (say 3000 or so) in a salubrious upcountry city like Udon Thani or Khon Kaen.

Scooters do not use much fuel if you avoid the automatic ones and get a regular bike. Girls are cheaper in Pattaya, though I have never taken a girl overnight as I don't see the point. You can get plenty of short times for 500-700 baht if you are a regular around town and become a regular for some girls. Then just splurge once in a while if you get tired of regulars.

If you live upcountry girls will tend not to be any cheaper than Pattaya, contrary to some expectations. Figure 1, 000 baht short time for good looking younger girls. There are, in some but not all cities, small brothels where you could go for 500-800 baht, but they really aren't very good as service is generally poor.

Anyway. 45, 000 / month would be enough upcountry, adequate in Pattaya, and I guess probably rather tight in Phuket or Bangkok, unless you don't plan to pay for girls. If no girls, then it is enough for anyplace.To add on this one, a friend of mine resides in Pattaya and knows a few spots, if your looking for hookups? He even emailed me this link.

http://thailand.adultsearch.com/pattaya-jomtien-beach/939

, and said that the girls were A+ for 400 to 600 baht. He's actually asking me come over next month which interest me cause it will give me the opportunity to share my adventures here.

Fresh Meat
06-11-12, 16:52
I am looking for advice from expats in Thailand as to which business will work there in BKK. Incidentally I have a indian friend who says india has free trade agreement with Thailand so can import and export at will between those countries.

Also looking for some genuine monger friends as partners for this business, we can have business and pleasure all combined in one.

Chris P
09-23-12, 14:23
Hello chaps,

I've heard about a place called Khao San Road, in Bangkok, which makes knock-offs of various types. Are these fakes actually any good, or are they obviously novelty items?

Scorchin1470
09-23-12, 15:05
Hello chaps,

I've heard about a place called Khao San Road, in Bangkok, which makes knock-offs of various types. Are these fakes actually any good, or are they obviously novelty items?I doubt anything is made in Khao San road as it is the backpackers base.

Fakes. Everything. Are available in Bangkok, from Rolexes to Viagra, from handbags to name t shirt, from Apple 5 'phones (available from China a year before Apple marketed them!) and no doubt much more. Some of the fakes are made in Thailand, some in other SE Asia countries and much in China.

But Khao San Road. No way.

OsakaGin11
01-14-13, 06:58
Mr Enternational,

Most of the bar owners don't know anything about that business and are quite unprofessional. Many of them are also the best customers of their own bar. And that's very bad already.

The standard story is, that a farang buys a bar for his Thai girlfriend. Usually 99 % of Thai girlfriends were met in bars. So they think they understand the business. Then they find out that only owning a bar and putting some girls in does not necessarily create enough revenue to make money. After a while, when the bar generates losses (lease must be paid every month) the farang wakes up and wants to get rid of the money burning machine. He usually then loses most of his investment. And his girlfriend.

I know most of the bar owners here in the road. There is ONE who understands his business, Bob from the Office Bar / Mojo. All others have (in my POV) no idea of what they are doing. That includes (of course) me too.

Giotto.

http://www.livingstones.co.thApologies if this has already been menitoned previously. But I did hear the secret once, of how to make a small fortune in business in Thailand. Start with large one! LOL

AussieDoug
01-14-13, 12:15
Hello chaps,

I've heard about a place called Khao San Road, in Bangkok, which makes knock-offs of various types. Are these fakes actually any good, or are they obviously novelty items?Khao San road specializes in knock off documents like student cards, I'd's and licences atc, from any country. There are knock off products everywhere in Thailand.

Rick Rock
01-14-13, 13:45
There is ONE who understands his business, Bob from the Office Bar / Mojo. All others have (in my POV) no idea of what they are doing. That includes (of course) me too.

He might know the financial end. I have no idea. But I sincerely question his taste in women. I've tried Office several times but have never found a girl even acceptable, let alone beautiful. Shame because the layout and costumes are nice. Eventually had to give up on the place.

Tiger 888
01-29-13, 01:44
I am looking for advice from expats in Thailand as to which business will work there in BKK. Incidentally I have a indian friend who says india has free trade agreement with Thailand so can import and export at will between those countries.

Also looking for some genuine monger friends as partners for this business, we can have business and pleasure all combined in one.The safest bet to create a small fortune with a business in Thailand is to start with a big one.

Jp Slicky
02-11-13, 12:36
I am living in Tokyo for past 20 years and am tired and wish to begin teaching English in Thailand and then I hope I can find a main squeeze there.

Starting from scratch, would it be better to go then and look or try to apply from here.

I have a BA and teaching experience in Japan but no TEFL certificate, Native in English fluent in Japanese and a service engineer background.

I here you can apply for a 90 or maybe it 60day tourist visa and look with that.

Then I suppose I have to leave and comback in for the B visa

Can some give me a few tidbits about doing this?

I hope to live in the Saraburi area

Somewhere15
02-19-13, 21:57
Hi, I hope someone can help me here.

I would like to buy (being a foreigner) certain stocs (from the SEC stock market) but I do not have a Thai bank account.

All my information tells me I only can open a Thai bank account when I have a Thai address as well.

For your information: I am from Western Europe, have a bank account with Etrade (USA) and trade their on the US stock market. Would like to do the same on the Thai stock market.

Marcos
03-21-13, 20:53
Hi, I hope someone can help me here.

I would like to buy (being a foreigner) certain stocs (from the SEC stock market) but I do not have a Thai bank account.

All my information tells me I only can open a Thai bank account when I have a Thai address as well.

For your information: I am from Western Europe, have a bank account with Etrade (USA) and trade their on the US stock market. Would like to do the same on the Thai stock market.Get an house rent receipt of some form and go to Kasikorn, they should open a savings account immediately.

After that go to their nearest stock branch, but I don't know what they will let you do.

TConor
04-28-13, 05:58
How do any of you living in BKK do it? Do you travel to boarder city?

NicFrenchy
05-26-13, 13:41
How do any of you living in BKK do it? Do you travel to boarder city?I'm on a B Visa (I think) and my secretary does it so I don't have to show my face down there.

You can do everything by mail these days: http://www.immigration.go.th/nov2004/en/base.php?page=90days

NeverGetsOld
07-02-13, 02:39
4 months in Thailand now. I had a bar girl GF this entire time and soon as I was got to the point where I couldn't bring myself to fucking her anymore and all excitement was lost I found a great new girl. I thought the day would never come but I now have a model like GF who sucks incredible dick. On looks alone I would keep her but her great oral skills has got me eaten pussy more than ever. I eat her out in 1 night longer than I have the 100 girls combined I fucked in the last year. Always 69 but I want to keep this one as much she wants to keep me. Doubt it but she might be the one I run away with to a beach bungalow. Loving Thailand right now. Hope my never-ending thirst for side pussy does not ruin this relationship. At least the working girls I fuck on visa runs will be easy to hide.

NeverJerkOff
07-18-13, 05:53
New expat smashing free pussy before I could pronounce khawp khun khrap. Still can't speak a lick of Thai and already have a little business in the black, playing with the house's money. So yes it is possible. No teaching English or whining from this Farang. Opportunity everywhere folks.

Marcos
07-18-13, 14:30
playing with the house's money. So yes it is possible.What that means?

NeverJerkOff
07-19-13, 05:52
What that means?I made my initial costs back and am just playing with profits. A gambling term that can be applied to business. Example you bring $1000 to the casino and are up $400. You put the $1000 in your car and are just gambling with $400 or the house's money. Super modest hustle but still pays for a lot of TG lips suctioned to my one eyed anaconda.

NeverJerkOff
08-19-13, 19:49
Visit the dating websites for the first time in a month. Put 45 minutes worth of work in and have a 18 year old travel 90 minutes to see me. She was so blatant about the fuck I was extra cautious but she wasn't playing. Introduce her to a blowjob. Think she never did that. Slow and nice but she was cleaning her mouth out before I blew my load. Fuck her and she leaves. No attachment to me. Haha I love it, maybe just a story for her friends. New generation looking promising. Too much fun stuff to do to be jerking around on dating sites though and not a fan. Until next time.

Frankfurter
08-26-13, 20:58
Guys,

I need help:

My USA registered motorcycle arrives at the port in BKK in late October. My plan is to do a three country tour, covering Cambo, Laos and Thailand, for five months total.

I am unsuccessful so far to find an insurer who would sell me a Thai policy for the bike although it is highly recommended from what I hear. (For Cambodia and Laos they can be purchased at the border, I don't know whether they are anything worth, though.)

Any ideas? Please PM me.

Greatly appreciated.

NeverJerkOff
08-28-13, 04:17
New GF. A Bangkok whitey paying for all my shit. True porn star experience, cute girl but she's got a fucking goatee. What the fuck man? Does every girl in this country have facial hair? I really need to grow a dick and ask her to shave it. She takes 2 hours to get ready. Brings a suitcase of cosmetics over but she can't take 2 minutes to shave this shit. Is this a fucked up fashion statement or something? Someone please enlighten me because I know she must be aware of. Really wish I had more money to P4P everyday because free pussy in this country is not fun. These girls get way to attached and want to control you. Yeah I put the brakes on but it's annoying as fuck.

Reiner Otto
09-08-13, 12:05
End of month I will be in Pattaya for a few days. As I have seen this dental clinic on the web.

http://www.centralpattayadental.com

Any users experience with it?

Or another recommendation from personal experience?

Just want some cleaning, whitening, crown (s) ,

Bonker04
09-08-13, 18:49
End of month I will be in Pattaya for a few days. As I have seen this dental clinic on the web.

http://www.centralpattayadental.com

Any users experience with it?

Or another recommendation from personal experience?

Just want some cleaning, whitening, crown (s) , I have no experience of central Pattaya dental.

I regularly use Dr Cherry, at Dentist@beach.4th floor, Central Festival Mall.

Very professional clinic.

TConor
09-17-13, 10:33
http://money.cnn.com/2013/09/15/news/banks-americans-lockout/

Reiner Otto
09-29-13, 12:09
I have no experience of central Pattaya dental.

I regularly use Dr Cherry, at Dentist@beach.4th Floor, Central Festival Mall.

Very professional clinic.thanks, did it. Good advice.

Reiner Otto
09-29-13, 12:14
Are there better opportunities to find an appartment for 3-month rent in Pattaya (middle of January until middle of April 2014) as using the web? I will be in Pattaya for a few days starting Wednesday, so may be a hint to a good local agency etc. Might be an alternative. Looking at 12. 000-16. 000 BHT / month max.

Mr Enternational
09-29-13, 14:03
Are there better opportunities to find an appartment for 3-month rent in Pattaya (middle of January until middle of April 2014) as using the web? I will be in Pattaya for a few days starting Wednesday, so may be a hint to a good local agency etc. Might be an alternative. Looking at 12. 000-16. 000 BHT / month max.Http://www.soidb.com/pattaya/apartment/index.html

NeverJerkOff
10-06-13, 09:51
I must be setting world records for free pussy in the kingdom. I got a university hottie on the floor above me who get's horny on the late. I don't even think she's into me but likes the easily accessible dick. A case of right place, right time. A shorty with ridiculous booty just gave me world class brains that would put most hoes out of business. Where'd I meet this one? Sukhumvit, Pattaya, online? Nah, on the street. Girl goes to beauty school in my neighborhood. Living up to my handle and with over 400 nuts in a year, you do the math.

Nevertheless, I think I'm going to return to the states in 6 months, maybe Texas or Colorado, for 1-2 years and reunite with my toys and my beloved Mexican food. I think I could live with only 1 or 2 nice thick ones over there if I can find one I don't want to suffocate. Filled my A cup quota for life here. The change of heart came from 2 weeks in bed sick as a dog. Tired of all this bird flu shit in Asia and get sick in ways I would not at home. I did discover some opium infused cough syrup they have here. Real nice. That stuff could turn me into a rapper. Glad I discovered Asia though and will return.

MikeKelimir
02-15-14, 19:22
Hey guys,

I'm thinking about living in Thailand (Bangkok) for 2 months and want to get a furnished place that is decent (washing machine, small kitchen and fairly clean but not over the top nice). Also would like to be near some of the night clubs and action but not in the middle of a shit hole part of town either. Basicially middle class life near some fun.

Any suggestions on places to stay and what the price range is?

Monsieur1875
02-24-14, 12:44
Hi, I hope someone can help me here.

I would like to buy (being a foreigner) certain stocs (from the SEC stock market) but I do not have a Thai bank account.

All my information tells me I only can open a Thai bank account when I have a Thai address as well.

For your information: I am from Western Europe, have a bank account with Etrade (USA) and trade their on the US stock market. Would like to do the same on the Thai stock market.Try Tisco or Kimeng.

Dicky Gozinya
03-12-14, 17:50
Hey guys,

I'm thinking about living in Thailand (Bangkok) for 2 months and want to get a furnished place that is decent (washing machine, small kitchen and fairly clean but not over the top nice). Also would like to be near some of the night clubs and action but not in the middle of a shit hole part of town either. Basicially middle class life near some fun.

Any suggestions on places to stay and what the price range is?I travel to the Kingdom often. I usually stay at one of the Condo's on Sukhumvitt, as there are so many short term monthly leases available there. I have stayed at the Trendy. Expensive about 30,000 baht a month for a studio, includes everything. Wireless internet, cable with English stations, great gym and pool, super close to all the action, secure building. Or you could stay at the Onmi Plaza on Soi C Nana about 1/2 mile down from the Nana plaza. Rates are better and the building is well known by the Thai girls so having a visit will be easy without too much explanation.

Good luck. Post where you end up and how much it cost.

Amavida
05-20-14, 04:52
May need to stay longer than 30 day tourist visa due to medical treatments. I understand there is no 'in country' extension. What is the quickest cheapest way to exit / return for another 30 day tourist visa?

AV.

Flyte137
05-20-14, 07:20
Move to Cambodia from Bangkok and return. The are travel agents on Soi11 who have a return transport to the border.


May need to stay longer than 30 day tourist visa due to medical treatments. I understand there is no 'in country' extension. What is the quickest cheapest way to exit / return for another 30 day tourist visa?

AV.

Amavida
05-20-14, 09:26
Move to Cambodia from Bangkok and return. The are travel agents on Soi11 who have a return transport to the border.Thank you!

Hope I can be of help in return.

AV.

Flyte137
05-20-14, 09:37
Anytime buddy. Would reach out to you when required. Thank You.


Thank you!

Hope I can be of help in return.

AV.

Somewhere15
05-27-14, 23:01
Move to Cambodia from Bangkok and return. The are travel agents on Soi11 who have a return transport to the border.When you entry Thailand by road you get a 14-days visa, when you fly in its 30 days, at least for European pasport holders. So that route to the Cambodian border is giving you a 14 days visa.

I heard some months ago from a British girlfriend who said she goes to Laos and when she returns she gets a 60 days visa. She always used a travel agency from Khosan Road.

Amavida
05-28-14, 05:38
When you entry Thailand by road you get a 14-days visa, when you fly in its 30 days, at least for European pasport holders. So that route to the Cambodian border is giving you a 14 days visa.

I heard some months ago from a British girlfriend who said she goes to Laos and when she returns she gets a 60 days visa. She always used a travel agency from Khosan Road.Thanks, very much appreciate the additional info!

AV.

TimTimGuy
06-10-14, 03:26
May need to stay longer than 30 day tourist visa due to medical treatments. I understand there is no 'in country' extension. What is the quickest cheapest way to exit / return for another 30 day tourist visa?AV.Hi Amavida. You might consider going to Kuala Lumpur and return the same day. It's possible for about US $100 and beats sitting in a bus for hours on end.

Also, you might ask your medical provider about getting a visa extension for you. If my memory serves, medical treatment is one of the very few visa extension loopholes. Good luck, TTG.

Amavida
06-11-14, 03:18
Hi Amavida. You might consider going to Kuala Lumpur and return the same day. It's possible for about US $100 and beats sitting in a bus for hours on end.

Also, you might ask your medical provider about getting a visa extension for you. If my memory serves, medical treatment is one of the very few visa extension loopholes. Good luck, TTG.Good idea! Thanks for the suggestion TTG.

AV.

Papae Noel
06-28-14, 15:02
I usually stay at one of the Condo's on Sukhumvitt, as there are so many short term monthly leases available there. I have stayed at the Trendy. Expensive about 30,000 baht a month for a studio, includes everything. Wireless internet, cable with English stations, great gym and pool, super close to all the action, secure building. Or you could stay at the Onmi Plaza on Soi C Nana about 1/2 mile down from the Nana plaza. Rates are better and the building is well known by the Thai girls so having a visit will be easy without too much explanation.

Is 'Condos on Sukhumvit' the actual name? This is my first time posting in the Living inThailand section, so can anyone point me to a resource for locating property agent, and any general tips on making Bangkok my new part time home.

Sometime next year I plan to lease a 2 bdroom condo, somewhere nearby either the Asoke or Nana BTS. Seen some ads on www.bangkokcondofinder.com, and quite a few nice looking 2 bdrms /1 bath for 30,000. My budget will be 40,000 plus whatever additional costs for cable, wifi, and electricity. Nearly every condo I viewed on that website has everything I need, a gym, pool, and security.

Plan to find a part time live in maid / cook. That is why I would need 2 bdrooms. She will be required for massage, but no sex. Wondering how to find her.

Wolvenvacht
06-28-14, 15:10
May need to stay longer than 30 day tourist visa due to medical treatments. I understand there is no 'in country' extension. What is the quickest cheapest way to exit / return for another 30 day tourist visa?

AV.Cannot you apply for a longer visa? I don't think that can be done at the border, you will have to do it in your home-country through the local consulate or embassy.

Wolvenvacht
06-28-14, 15:13
Plan to find a part time live in maid / cook. That is why I would need 2 bdrooms. She will be required for massage, but no sex. Wondering how to find her.Something says me that it will be easier to find someone for sex than for "massage only".

Papae Noel
06-28-14, 19:07
It will be a challenge, no doubt. Yes, going to a soapy or oily will be far better than a live in. With that said, what better way to have my body and mind prepared to go to one of the real venues than being prepped by an at home massage. There must be some expat they enjoys this type of situation.

Actually having one of the soapy or oily girls take the room, and she can warm up for her job right at home with me! But she needs to cook and clean too! Anyways, only want someone for 3 to 5 days a week. Don't want a full time live in. Might be more attractive to someone if they know they can go do whatever they want for half of the week.

Sky Ryder
07-01-14, 09:52
Gentlemen,

I hope you will allow me to ask a question from those who are most likely to know the answer.

I am wondering if anyone knows if I can purchase nitroglycerin paste or patch, and Linsopril at a local pharmacy without a prescription. If not can someone recommend a GP doctor I might visit to see if I can secure the necessary paper work.

Thank you in advance for any suggestions.

Sky.

RicardoMJ
07-04-14, 09:21
Hey guys,

If you are in Jomtien area or Pattaya. Would love to connect with other mongers and head to the Lady Bars! And make some friends in Pattaya. I am here for 5 months.

Cheers!

Tiered
07-08-14, 00:21
I am interested to buy an apartment or a house in Pattaya.

Please can any one advise.

Area? Law? Any advise.

Many thanks.

Run Mann
07-08-14, 00:50
I am interested to buy an apartment or a house in Pattaya.

Please can any one advise.

Any advise.

Don't do it.

Tiered
07-08-14, 12:30
Don't do it.Why can you please explain.

I am interested to buy an apartment or a house in Pattaya.

Fish N Chips
11-21-14, 09:44
Why can you please explain.

I am interested to buy an apartment or a house in Pattaya.First you need to learn your community before you do anything, and that means living there for several years to understand why it doesn't make sense to buy.

Second, the only thing available to you to buy is a condo, and even then you have several financial liabilities that can arise later to make the investment worthless.

Third, if you aren't American you can't own property in your own name, and if you are it takes a greater knowledge then just a causal investor to secure your assets. If you are only looking to buy a house or a living space this resource does not apply.

I am not saying this is impossible, just providing an ROI analysis and it really isn't any where near the ballpark.

TellAll
11-21-14, 18:57
Why can you please explain.

I am interested to buy an apartment or a house in Pattaya.Anywhere that has as many roadblocks to foreign ownership of property as Thailand, you need to think twice about trying to buy. Especially now with Military Coup. You don't know what may happen.

Amavida
11-26-14, 23:19
I am interested to buy an apartment or a house in Pattaya.

Please can any one advise.

Area? Law? Any advise.

Many thanks.Your interest my wane after reading this:

http://m.smh.com.au/world/eviction-threat-for-australians-who-put-life-savings-into-thai-dream-homes-20141126-11u7a1.html

AV.

TellAll
11-27-14, 04:04
Your interest my wane after reading this:

http://m.smh.com.au/world/eviction-threat-for-australians-who-put-life-savings-into-thai-dream-homes-20141126-11u7a1.html

AV.You can rent whatever you want for as long as you want. No need to buy.

My philosophy is Passport, money and credit cards. Everthing else is expendable.

Always be prepared for a quick exit.

Ersnh
05-04-15, 08:56
I live in Bangkok and in my opinion now is not a good time to buy. There seem to be cranes everywhere building new mid-rises and above. Rents are fairly cheap for a city of this level of wealth, compared to other big cities in Asia. Then when you consider the tenuous political situation it just seems like too much risk for too low of a reward.

DwayneJohnson
05-20-15, 23:29
New expat smashing free pussy before I could pronounce khawp khun khrap. Still can't speak a lick of Thai and already have a little business in the black, playing with the house's money. So yes it is possible. No teaching English or whining from this Farang. Opportunity everywhere folks.How did you managed that?

I was looking for investment based citizenship but coming up short by few million baht.

Asian Rain
05-21-15, 17:11
Don't do it.Interesting if you provide some detail to that comment. AR.

Dragonrider
08-07-15, 19:38
I'm heading to Pattaya in a few weeks to see if I like it (I realize that living there and hitting the bars for 2 weeks is totally different).

My income will be about 900,000 be per year plus I have another couple of million baht in reserve. I figure the following:

Rent- 15000- 20000

Electricity- 2000

Internet- 600

Food- 12000

Misc- 6000

So unless my math is off, that is only 400,000 - 500,000 per year. Am I missing anything?

How much would a full time girl accept to live in (cooking, cleaning, sex) ? I said accept, not how much would she want. She would want all I have of course. Would 15-20 K month be in the ballpark?

Thank you.

EihTooms
08-08-15, 06:19
I'm heading to Pattaya in a few weeks to see if I like it (I realize that living there and hitting the bars for 2 weeks is totally different).

My income will be about 900,000 be per year plus I have another couple of million baht in reserve. I figure the following:

Rent- 15000- 20000

Electricity- 2000

Internet- 600

Food- 12000

Misc- 6000

So unless my math is off, that is only 400,000 - 500,000 per year. Am I missing anything?

How much would a full time girl accept to live in (cooking, cleaning, sex) ? I said accept, not how much would she want. She would want all I have of course. Would 15-20 K month be in the ballpark?

Thank you.I think your budget list looks fairly realistic except for one element; Food. You could certainly survive on 12000 baht per month (about 400 baht per day) but that means you would either be cooking all or most simple meals at home or dining out on Thai street food for your two or three meals per day. Can be done. But when the urge seizes you often enough during the week to indulge in something closer to western fare, you'll blow through the better part of one day's food budget on a Big Mac combo with a cookie for dessert alone, not to mention what you'd shell out for a full course lunch or dinner at a western style eatery; roast beef, pizza, Mexican food, whatever. In most cases, you'll be lucky to get away for less than 400-500 baht per meal with drink when you do that. Again, assuming you are dining out and not cooking in.

When it comes to the girl, you could probably find one who would accept as little as 15,000 per month, maybe even less than that to live in with you and perform the daily chores. But that won't be the end of it by a long shot. She'll need to eat a meal or two on a daily basis too. And she isn't going to dip into her monthly income to pay for it as long as you or your wallet is within spitting distance. Then there is the sick grandmother emergency, the sick grandfather emergency, the sick mother emergency, the sick father emergency, the sick baby emergency, the jailed brother emergency, the birthday emergency, the mother's birthday emergency, the father's birthday emergency, the need a new smartphone emergency, the need more phone "up" emergency, the new clothes emergency, the new shoes emergency, etc. Some of which will occur on a nearly monthly basis and will blow that 15,000 baht girl budget out of the water rather quickly. You probably already know all about that kind of stuff but thought it should be mentioned on a topic like this anyway.

Dragonrider
08-08-15, 18:11
I think your budget list looks fairly realistic except for one element; Food. You could certainly survive on 12000 baht per month (about 400 baht per day) but that means you would either be cooking all or most simple meals at home or dining out on Thai street food for your two or three meals per day. Even with an increased food budget, it seems do-able. While it would be nice to actually live on the 900,000, I don't mind throwing in another 150,000-200,000 per year from my retirement accounts. After doing some reading, I have revised my plans that originally included stuff like buying her family some pigs or a noodle stand and her a nail or beauty salon.

I guess I'll have to do a "pretend" shopping run once I'm there. I should have plenty of time to look around during the day until the girl action starts. Luckily I am not a big drinker (about 2 beers per month) although I'm sure that would increase living there. On my trips to the Netherlands and Germany, I generally spent next to nothing on food because I spent all of my money on the girls (22 girls in 6 days) but if I am living there I will have to eat more regularly (although I could lose 20-30 pounds).

Does anyone know if they sell electric bikes in Thailand? Seems like a better option than a scooter.

Sunlover2
08-14-15, 21:03
I'm heading to Pattaya in a few weeks to see if I like it (I realize that living there and hitting the bars for 2 weeks is totally different).

My income will be about 900,000 be per year plus I have another couple of million baht in reserve. I figure the following:

Rent- 15000- 20000

Electricity- 2000

Internet- 600

Food- 12000

Misc- 6000

So unless my math is off, that is only 400,000 - 500,000 per year. Am I missing anything?

How much would a full time girl accept to live in (cooking, cleaning, sex) ? I said accept, not how much would she want. She would want all I have of course. Would 15-20 K month be in the ballpark?

Thank you.I would include as line items in a monthy budget: health insurance, some nightlife, gym club membership / recreation, and sightseeing in and around Thailand and Southeast Asia. Thai visa renewal, dental work, cell phone and computer, eyewear, and new clothing will also be re-occuring costs at some point.

I have done some similar calculations and the total I usually end up with is something like: rent x 2 + 20%. Basically in the long term you would not live in an el cheapo place and spend the majority on nightlife, nor would you live in a grand place and eat rice every day. So the amount you are willing to part with for monthly rent is a good tell of your other lifestyle levels.

The biggest variables are food / drinks and nightlife / lady company. Only you know your appetite for those things. As for the live-in I would start with her coming over maybe 2-3 x a week and see how it goes, or maybe two or three different ladies 1 x per week. And don't forget to plan for an annual trip home to visit family and friends which can be a significant amount on its own.

SL

AfAsia
08-17-15, 12:44
http://www.traveldailymedia.com/225264/thailand-to-offer-multiple-entry-visas-to-all-visitors/

Mr Enternational
08-17-15, 13:01
A girl once told me that for 10000 baht a month she could stay home. So let that be a benchmark. A chick living with you has no overhead. She only needs to send a couple thousand baht home every month.

A good friend of mine who is full time retired budgets US $3000/ month. Sometimes he stays under and sometimes he goes over. Keep in mind that his ocean view condo is 30000 baht / month vs my 4500 baht / month room. He also gives a different chick 1500 baht pretty much everyday and has a car and a motorbike.

Mr Happy Feet
09-07-15, 07:49
You can rent whatever you want for as long as you want. No need to buy.

My philosophy is Passport, money and credit cards. Everthing else is expendable.

Always be prepared for a quick exit.Like most of you readers, I have bought and sold houses in my home country. However, as I make final preparations for my transition to retirement in Hua Hin this Spring I find myself undecided. Initially, I was only considering renting. I learned that renting long-term and paying in advance provides good bargaining and there truly is a glut of empty places right now. Recently, I did start noticing several sale prices for furnished Condos near the beach and with pools and fitness rooms. Those three items are very important to me. So I did the math. I could either buy the place of my dreams for about 4. 5 M baht or I could rent it for about 20,000 per month. I am 53 years old and hope to stay in Thailand at least 20 years. If I buy the place it will cost me about $140,000 plus the loss of the interest it could earn, plus the cost of maintaining it for 20+ years. So, for ease let's say another $12,000 or a total of $152,000 USD. Now, if I were to rent at 20,000 baht per month for the same 20 years, I would spend 4. 8 million baht or about $150,000 USD. So, dollar-for-dollar it is very, very close for me. Now enter Devil's advocate. Overlooking the resale value in 20-years, If I choose to buy NOW, this month, Sep 2015, the baht to dollar rate is 36 NOT the "32" I always use in my planning calculations. This change amounts to 12 percent-a significant discount. If it continues up to 40 baht that will be 25 percent. A huge discount and more than I could ever hope my savings to earn. So, now I am really torn! I desire the freedom of renting MORE than I desire the pride of ownership, but a 25% discount. I would appreciate any constructive discussions and would love to hear from those that "have been there, done that".

MHF

Asian Rain
09-08-15, 15:49
There are a million considerations to buying property, but if you are committed to staying the same location for 20 years, it is hard to lose financially with buying a place. If you are going to buy, you also need to factor in annual maintenance and potentially sinking fund costs. These former is a yearly cost and is generally fixed on a square meter rate. The latter can fluctuate depending upon the condo association and the needs for maintenance. Luckily there are no fixed property taxes in Thailand. You will also probably want to factor in for renovation / major maintenance 2-3 x in a 20 year period. For example, replacing an aircon unit can be a substantial expense. When you are renting, all of these cost elements belong to the landlord.

For THB4. 5 m, that is 225 months of rent at 20,000, which if nothing else changes is about 19 years of rent (without all of the above).

In the last 10 years I have been monitoring condo rental costs in BKK, certain areas have not changed a bit. The cost of rental always fluctuates a bit, but the cost to purchase always seems quite steep. Rather than jump into a place, you might consider to rent a place for a year and really scan the places and market. Right now there is a major glut of stock of 1-2 BR units in most areas and the market is depressed with the military government and bombings keeping away tourists. There is no need to rush to buy tomorrow in my opinion. If you can, rent in the building that you want to purchase and make sure that the maintenance / admin team is good, the developer has done a good job and you don't have surprises like bad neighbors that you can't move away from if you have gotten stuck with a purchase.

You also might try to find a place that is older, get it at a cheap price and renovate to your desire. Often you will find that the more recent builds are tiny boxes with quite premium prices. Going with an older place sometimes allows you to get a generous layout that you can gut and fitout to your liking.

When I purchased a place, I bought an off-the-plan unit and got a sweet unit. I was lucky that the build was only 6 months late and the place paid back my entire investment in just 9 years via rentals. I bought low on a good unit with a good developer and managed to keep the unit rented over 80% of the time with a good rental with sane tenants and reasonable maintenance overhead, so with good luck it is possible to make the maths work out depending upon what you want to do. Good luck, AR.


Like most of you readers, I have bought and sold houses in my home country. However, as I make final preparations for my transition to retirement in Hua Hin this Spring I find myself undecided. Initially, I was only considering renting. I learned that renting long-term and paying in advance provides good bargaining and there truly is a glut of empty places right now. Recently, I did start noticing several sale prices for furnished Condos near the beach and with pools and fitness rooms. Those three items are very important to me. So I did the math. I could either buy the place of my dreams for about 4. 5 M baht or I could rent it for about 20,000 per month. I am 53 years old and hope to stay in Thailand at least 20 years. If I buy the place it will cost me about $140,000 plus the loss of the interest it could earn, plus the cost of maintaining it for 20+ years. So, for ease let's say another $12,000 or a total of $152,000 USD. Now, if I were to rent at 20,000 baht per month for the same 20 years, I would spend 4. 8 million baht or about $150,000 USD. So, dollar-for-dollar it is very, very close for me. Now enter Devil's advocate. Overlooking the resale value in 20-years, If I choose to buy NOW, this month, Sep 2015, the baht to dollar rate is 36 NOT the "32" I always use in my planning calculations. This change amounts to 12 percent-a significant discount. If it continues up to 40 baht that will be 25 percent. A huge discount and more than I could ever hope my savings to earn. So, now I am really torn! I desire the freedom of renting MORE than I desire the pride of ownership, but a 25% discount. I would appreciate any constructive discussions and would love to hear from those that "have been there, done that".

MHF

TellAll
09-08-15, 17:37
Like most of you readers, I have bought and sold houses in my home country. However, as I make final preparations for my transition to retirement in Hua Hin this Spring I find myself undecided. Initially, I was only considering renting. I learned that renting long-term and paying in advance provides good bargaining and there truly is a glut of empty places right now. Recently, I did start noticing several sale prices for furnished Condos near the beach and with pools and fitness rooms. Those three items are very important to me. So I did the math. I could either buy the place of my dreams for about 4. 5 M baht or I could rent it for about 20,000 per month. I am 53 years old and hope to stay in Thailand at least 20 years. If I buy the place it will cost me about $140,000 plus the loss of the interest it could earn, plus the cost of maintaining it for 20+ years. So, for ease let's say another $12,000 or a total of $152,000 USD. Now, if I were to rent at 20,000 baht per month for the same 20 years, I would spend 4. 8 million baht or about $150,000 USD. So, dollar-for-dollar it is very, very close for me. Now enter Devil's advocate. Overlooking the resale value in 20-years, If I choose to buy NOW, this month, Sep 2015, the baht to dollar rate is 36 NOT the "32" I always use in my planning calculations. This change amounts to 12 percent-a significant discount. If it continues up to 40 baht that will be 25 percent. A huge discount and more than I could ever hope my savings to earn. So, now I am really torn! I desire the freedom of renting MORE than I desire the pride of ownership, but a 25% discount. I would appreciate any constructive discussions and would love to hear from those that "have been there, done that".

MHFJust remember a couple things. You may not want to live in the same place or town for 20 years. I have seen many condo complexes go to shit because not enough people in them to pay for proper maintnence. No telling what that place will look like in 5,10 or 20 years.

It is a buyer be warned situation and if you have to leave in a hurry, if you bought, you may be out of big money.

Sunlover2
09-08-15, 17:50
Hey MHF,

I think a lot of us have thought about your situation time and again, and I have done similar financial value calculations. Congratulations for being on the cusp! Some random thoughts:

I would not invest an amount in ex-pat real estate that I could not walk away from comfortably. (Risk aversion).

I would not expect a robust or liquid real estate market when / if / should you decide / be forced to sell. (Murphy's Law).

Renting is cheap, and time is on your side. Once you are on the ground full time there could be even better opportunities and entry points on which to pounce on in the future.

I would like to know the area quite well before investing significant capital. That would mean living anywhere full-time for a while.

Your scenario of 4. 5 M bath (buy) vs 20,000 in monthly rent is 5. 3%, which is about the average asking ratio in my research.

I would in any case wait for the Monarchy process to play itself out. It is inevitable and too significant an event to be ignored. (Risk aversion).

The biggest variable in my buy / rent calculus is how much the property would appreciate (buying) vs how much the 'pile of money' you will have remaining (renting) would earn over time. How would you invest the pile? The currently fixed interest at 1% or 2%, or in stock equities which historically (in the US) have returned more than 8% on average, or a balanced fashion which could expected to yield 5% or so.

SL.

Mr Happy Feet
09-12-15, 09:16
I appreciate the information and value the discussion with you, TellAll and AsianRain. I will keep up the diligent research. The reminder about the Monarch and the Junta is important. I keep putting those issues aside because they are out of my control but they could be HUGE and unpredictable.

On a personal note, even though I have a great job in Japan, each morning it gets harder to get up and go to work, LOL.

Stay happy in the LOS.

MHF

Banana Boi
01-23-16, 05:54
My first time reading this thread and have reviewed back to 2011. Thanks to everything for the information and some things to consider.


I would not invest an amount in ex-pat real estate that I could not walk away from comfortably. (Risk aversion).Best advice. Although I am contemplating on purchasing a cheap place I have said to myself it will have to be so cheap that it wouldn't hurt me if I lost the entire investment.


Then there is the sick grandmother emergency, the sick grandfather emergency, the sick mother emergency, the sick father emergency, the sick baby emergency, the jailed brother emergency, the birthday emergency, the mother's birthday emergency, the father's birthday emergency, the need a new smartphone emergency, the need more phone "up" emergency, the new clothes emergency, the new shoes emergency, etc. Some of which will occur on a nearly monthly basis and will blow that 15,000 baht girl budget out of the water rather quickly. This was my favorite thing I read.

Breadman
03-02-16, 16:43
Another thing to consider is what might happen if the building has an issue like bedbugs, mold infestation or something of that nature. Something where it might just be easier to move to another location. I'm also of the opinion of renting something on the cheaper side and possibly keeping two places in different cities or being able to travel elsewhere for months at a time without a place being a drain on my finances. I could see myself living in Thailand 9 months out of the year but taking sidetrips to Europe during the summer months.

LuvDaPuss
08-07-16, 15:40
Greetings -.

I finally decided to pull the plug here in the US and retire in the LOS. This just happened last week so things are still a bit up in the air. I have been there 3 times on vacation in the last 15 years so I am familiar with the landscape but certainly not an expert. The last time I was there was 2010 when the red shirt/yellow shirt demonstrations were going on. As with all things Thai there were the most polite and well-behaved demonstrations one could ever imagine. Is it the same sort of thing going on now with the "new constitution" or has it gotten more ugly? As you expats well know, vacationing there and living there are entirely different propositions. My intention is to find a place on Phuket as far away from Patong Beach as feasible. Any thoughtful opinions or insight into the present situation would be much appreciated by this newly retired old monger. . LDP.

Mr Enternational
08-07-16, 17:04
As with all things Thai there were the most polite and well-behavedI think you were in the wrong Thailand. Maybe go poke around on ThaiVisa a bit and get up to snuff on the daily news and the how do you do whatever you need to dos. You definitely do not want to base moving on three visits. Go somewhere and get a 6 month lease and then decide if you can stomach the place. I love it, but it is not for everybody. Why do people on motorbikes drive down the street the wrong way?

LuvDaPuss
08-07-16, 23:29
Thank you Mr. E for the quick post and for the website advice. I used the wrong term when I said "move to Thailand". My intention is to do just what you suggested, go there for at least 6 to 18 months. No furniture or massive amount of belongings will be shipped from California, just me with a back pack and maybe a suitcase in tow. Technically not a "move" but perhaps it could be considered pre-marital sex in advance of what may be a long term relationship. I'm all ears for any more suggestions or more detailed opinions you may have so let them fly.
I am also curious as to what the order of succession looks like with their King in poor health at an advanced age. Granted there has been plenty of political unrest and coups in the past, but he seems to have been the last resort stabilizer. Without him or his image to hold things together in the future, will all still be well? .....LDP.

Gin And Tonic
08-12-16, 17:41
Thank you Mr. E for the quick post and for the website advice. I used the wrong term when I said "move to Thailand". My intention is to do just what you suggested, go there for at least 6 to 18 months. No furniture or massive amount of belongings will be shipped from California, just me with a back pack and maybe a suitcase in tow. Technically not a "move" but perhaps it could be considered pre-marital sex in advance of what may be a long term relationship. I'm all ears for any more suggestions or more detailed opinions you may have so let them fly.
I am also curious as to what the order of succession looks like with their King in poor health at an advanced age. Granted there has been plenty of political unrest and coups in the past, but he seems to have been the last resort stabilizer. Without him or his image to hold things together in the future, will all still be well? .....LDP.There is a crown prince. Your opinions are out to lunch. The truth cannot be reported in country.

Gin And Tonic
08-12-16, 17:56
Greetings -.

I finally decided to pull the plug here in the US and retire in the LOS. This just happened last week so things are still a bit up in the air. I have been there 3 times on vacation in the last 15 years so I am familiar with the landscape but certainly not an expert. The last time I was there was 2010 when the red shirt/yellow shirt demonstrations were going on. As with all things Thai there were the most polite and well-behaved demonstrations one could ever imagine. Is it the same sort of thing going on now with the "new constitution" or has it gotten more ugly? As you expats well know, vacationing there and living there are entirely different propositions. My intention is to find a place on Phuket as far away from Patong Beach as feasible. Any thoughtful opinions or insight into the present situation would be much appreciated by this newly retired old monger. . LDP.Update: 13 bombs and fires the last couple days including at Patong. Could be Reds. Could be southern separatists. Could be friends of kicked out Chinese Muslims.

I made the move 3 years ago. Checked out Phuket but girlfriend at the time didn't want to live there. In retrospect I'm glad I didn't move there. Would have gotten bored to quick.

I decided to settle in Jomtien Beach. Cheaper than the higher end resort towns and easy for me to live a western lifestyle. Unlimited mongering options a ten minute baht bus ride in Pattaya. Quite at night and always feel safe day or night. 1 hour 45 minutes by bus to the Bangkok sky train system at airport. 122 baht.

LuvDaPuss
08-12-16, 18:42
Saw the news about the trouble there. I still want to go ahead as planned and expect to be there before the end of September. Who knows, maybe the rent will be cheaper. Will find out soon enough. Pity the fools making all the trouble when the cops get a hold of them. When they get done there won't be much left.

Got the go ahead from social security yesterday so that should all go into my account starting the end of November. That scares me a little bit as I hope they don't screw it up and want me to drop on by for a face to face meeting.

And yeah, my take on things is sure to be out to lunch at this time. Yours was too 3 years ago I'm sure. Why do you say Phuket is boring and Jomtien is not? Because of proximity to Bangkok? Guess I'm not much for the big city type stuff but I would like to visit Chiang Mai sometime as I've heard good things about it.

Mr Enternational
08-12-16, 18:52
Why do you say Phuket is boring and Jomtien is not? Because of proximity to Bangkok? Guess I'm not much for the big city type stuff but I would like to visit Chiang Mai sometime as I've heard good things about it.Because Jomtien is connected to Pattaya; Phuket ain't connected to shit. I was there 5 years ago for scuba diving and have no intentions on going back. I have been to CM twice for tourist stuff and no plans to go back there either. You can land up in prison for talking about royalty, so it is best not even to discuss it. And leave political discussions to the Thais. Just go lay low and enjoy the place for what it is worth.

Oliver Kitsoff
10-23-16, 07:29
Hi,

There is so much bullshit frankly written about Thailand in the media, be it Thai or foreign.

The only people that know what's going on are the Privy Council, think of them as Thailand's star chamber, illuminati, or whatever, it's not a conspiracy theory it is a political fact.

They are the true power behind EVERYTHING (read between the lines here guys, certain things cannot be spoken of here).

Even they don't know the future but they are currently jockeying for the ultimate position.

If you want to know more, then forget BBC, CNN, RT, and all the other MSM that kowtow to the junta and go to:

Newmandala dot org www.newmandala.org if you are in Thailand and don't use a VPN (not Hola if you value your freedom!) then you most certainly will be blocked from this site.

This is a think tank run out of the very capable ANU Asian Studies faculty in Canberra, Australia.
It is the closest a monger will ever get to what goes on behind closed doors here,
and it would behoove all of you to at least understand the very hidden truth about this place.

Good luck to us all, we'll likely need it!

GoodEnough
10-23-16, 07:32
Hi,

There is so much bullshit frankly written about Thailand in the media, be it Thai or foreign.

The only people that know what's going on are the Privy Council, think of them as Thailand's star chamber, illuminati, or whatever, it's not a conspiracy theory it is a political fact.

They are the true power behind EVERYTHING (read between the lines here guys, certain things cannot be spoken of here).

Even they don't know the future but they are currently jockeying for the ultimate position.

If you want to know more, then forget BBC, CNN, RT, and all the other MSM that kowtow to the junta and go to:

Newmandala dot org.

This is the closest a monger will ever get to what goes on behind closed doors here, and it would behoove all of you to at least understand the very hidden truth about this place.

Good luck to us all, we'll likely need it!Thanks very much for the tip. As the possibility of growing anti-Western / anti-US sentiment grows ever stronger here in the Philippines, where I've been for 14 years, I've been thinking of a move there, even a temporary move. Evidently life for expats in Thailand is as tentative and uncertain as it is here, or am I reading too much into your post?

GE.

Oliver Kitsoff
10-23-16, 07:45
Thanks very much for the tip. As the possibility of growing anti-Western / anti-US sentiment grows ever stronger here in the Philippines, where I've been for 14 years, I've been thinking of a move there, even a temporary move. Evidently life for expats in Thailand is as tentative and uncertain as it is here, or am I reading too much into your post?

GE.Frankly GE, I don't know!

I do know that I was never a fan of the PI having tasted it (lovely women, shithole of a place) even before that lunatic got into power.

He changes his story every day, and frankly I think he's mentally unstable.

As I recommended, there are only two sites both current and prospective expats need to make a decision thets RIGHT FOR THEM, not the next guy, and those are:

numbeo.com -for cost of living, crime rates, etc.

And newmandala -for the skinny on what the elite are up to and how that may affect you personally, or not.

Everything else is barstool opinions, usually borrowed from what the television tells mongers to think!

Including what you read here 95% of the time.

Sorry if that offends some, but take it to the pub, I'm not here to debate this stuff, just to try and help in a practical way.

Asian Rain
10-23-16, 07:56
I've been thinking of a move there, even a temporary move. Evidently life for expats in Thailand is as tentative and uncertain as it is here, or am I reading too much into your post?Right now expats are the least of concern and worry for the rulers. Stunted royal succession, possible internal political unrest and super fragile economy are the main concerns. I have my doubts about things getting too far out of hand in Phils, but if you need a country to escape to, Thailand is an easy place to set up if you need a quick getaway.

The world is now coming due for the cyclical 10-year economic crisis and shearing of the meek masses, so I would be less concerned about what Hillary, Du30 and other political talking heads are up to. There is a much bigger play happening. Enjoy, AsianRain.

Oliver Kitsoff
10-23-16, 08:22
Right now expats are the least of concern and worry for the rulers. Stunted royal succession, possible internal political unrest and super fragile economy are the main concerns. I have my doubts about things getting too far out of hand in Phils, but if you need a country to escape to, Thailand is an easy place to set up if you need a quick getaway.

The world is now coming due for the cyclical 10-year economic crisis and shearing of the meek masses, so I would be less concerned about what Hillary, Du30 and other political talking heads are up to. There is a much bigger play happening. Enjoy, AsianRain.I agree with you that all sorts of hell is about to be unleashed economically.

Once scoffed at by the MSM, Messrs. Schiff, Rogers, and 'Dr. Doom' incidentally, also a CM resident, and habitue of Loy Kroh Rd, more and more economists are predicting at the very least a correction, I think we face GFC 2. 0 without the bailouts this time!

As to the second part of your observation, while expats may not be directly in anyone's crosshairs yet, decisions made on high, impact every member of a nations population for better or worse. If you at least understand some of the key personalities, as described by their peers (our foreign Ambassadors) in the wikileaks cables, and not the PR crap they put out for the masses, you MAY be able to perhaps make better expat decisions.

There are NO guarantees!

GoodEnough
10-23-16, 09:01
Right now expats are the least of concern and worry for the rulers. Stunted royal succession, possible internal political unrest and super fragile economy are the main concerns. I have my doubts about things getting too far out of hand in Phils, but if you need a country to escape to, Thailand is an easy place to set up if you need a quick getaway.

The world is now coming due for the cyclical 10-year economic crisis and shearing of the meek masses, so I would be less concerned about what Hillary, Du30 and other political talking heads are up to. There is a much bigger play happening. Enjoy, AsianRain.If the Philippines is any metaphor for the rest of the region, I'm not sure I agree. Recent developments here prove, if nothing else, that large segments of the local population are easily pursuaded to believe that, however ridiculous the contention, external threats--the US, Western Imperialism, the EU--are responsible for the country's current problems. Current Philippines politicians are succeeding beyond measure in absurd arguments holding the US (and the EU) culpable for the country's total failure to develop. I'm guessing that the same could happen in the Land of Smiles; external bogeymen are easier to create as a focus for collective frustration than are real solutions. Putin has built an entire career on that premise and enjoys an 86% approval rating from the population of his disastrous country.

I look forward to having some discussions next month in Bangkok with a few expats who have lived there for several years. I'd like to know if, as is the case here among some Westerners, they're growing increasingly uneasy about the longer-term.

GE.

Asian Rain
10-23-16, 13:10
I agree with you that all sorts of hell is about to be unleashed economically.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ECi6WJpbzE

Amavida
11-02-16, 07:55
Hi,

There is so much bullshit frankly written about Thailand in the media, be it Thai or foreign.

The only people that know what's going on are the Privy Council, think of them as Thailand's star chamber, illuminati, or whatever, it's not a conspiracy theory it is a political fact.

They are the true power behind EVERYTHING (read between the lines here guys, certain things cannot be spoken of here).

Even they don't know the future but they are currently jockeying for the ultimate position.

If you want to know more, then forget BBC, CNN, RT, and all the other MSM that kowtow to the junta and go to:

Newmandala dot org www.newmandala.org if you are in Thailand and don't use a VPN (not Hola if you value your freedom!) then you most certainly will be blocked from this site.

This is a think tank run out of the very capable ANU Asian Studies faculty in Canberra, Australia.
It is the closest a monger will ever get to what goes on behind closed doors here,
and it would behoove all of you to at least understand the very hidden truth about this place.

Good luck to us all, we'll likely need it!Thanks for sharing this. Always good to have different views as counterpoint to MSM.

AV.

Red Kilt
11-02-16, 14:20
Right now expats are the least of concern and worry for the rulers. . .<SNIP> I have my doubts about things getting too far out of hand in Phils, . .<SNIP> There is too much institutionalized engagement with the USA, and the West in general, for there to be any concerns for expats in the Philippines and I would opine that the situation is MUCH more potentially volatile in Thailand than in the Philippines, with uncertainty and doubts about the royal succession plan and the simmering distaste that the North-east has for Bkk and its "rulers".

It would take a momentous shift in the center of gravity for anything to change for expats in the Philippines, and the current Philippines President, although immensely "popular" with the masses, does not have the eloquence or charisma to move the masses away from the USA.

The reality is that if Du30 were to disappear from view overnight, business here would continue as usual, because people are largely inert and prefer their comfort zones. I am not sure that this underlying stability exists in Thailand.

I am staying put where I am.

Amavida
11-03-16, 03:59
There is too much institutionalized engagement with the USA, and the West in general, for there to be any concerns for expats in the Philippines and I would opine that the situation is MUCH more potentially volatile in Thailand than in the Philippines, with uncertainty and doubts about the royal succession plan and the simmering distaste that the North-east has for Bkk and its "rulers".

It would take a momentous shift in the center of gravity for anything to change for expats in the Philippines, and the current Philippines President, although immensely "popular" with the masses, does not have the eloquence or charisma to move the masses away from the USA.

The reality is that if Du30 were to disappear from view overnight, business here would continue as usual, because people are largely inert and prefer their comfort zones. I am not sure that this underlying stability exists in Thailand.

I am staying put where I am.RK, the reality is, in fact, Duterte isn't going anywhere save a bullet or stroke.

He rode into power on a wave of nationalistic populism and continues to milk it for all he is worth. He has an arguably competent administration but under his demagogic style no one dares argue with him. His great booster and China envoy, former president Ramos, has quit in disgust and described Duterte's policies as quote: 'shit'. The rule of law remains suspended with state sanctioned murder and death squads still in effect. Duterte is courting his military and police assiduously and that, combined with his massive populism, means RP is very real danger of tipping over into a revolutionary government before the plebs realise what has hit them.

I'll take Thai politics and a higher standard of living over your alternative.

Regards & Best wishes.

AV.

Pinaypounder
12-27-16, 14:14
Hi all,

I hope that I don't bore you but I am looking for a local business in Software or Software Development to partner with.

I have developed some amazing security safety apps and software that will work well here in BKK.

Please inbox me if you are interested or know of someone.

Thank you.

PP.

Scungo
03-24-18, 14:11
I am thinking of living in Thailand, if not permanently then at least 5 months out of the year. I am wondering what is the best place to go for my purposes. My checklist is:

1) Hot, but not too hot.

2) Mountainous, but not so as it is too difficult to walk (hopefully the elevation will make it cooler as well).

3) Quiet, but I can still get laid when the mood takes me.

4) Facilities, food, eating places not too far away.

I might also add:

5) Cheap.

Although if I choose to buy somewhere, I might pay more in order to get more rental income when I am not there.

Tricky, because everything is a trade-off.

I had my honeymoon in Chiang Mai and liked it there, though more in the mountains would be better. There may even be areas around Phuket that are reasonably mountainous.

Anderlu
03-16-19, 21:41
I have visited Chiang Mai several times, occasionally for longer spells. For three year I have considered buying a condo to live part of he year here. Whereas I enjoy a certain aspect of life in Thailand greatly, it would be nice to add a new dimension to this. I am trying to identify locations where older western expat men meet for a drink and a chat and possibly exploring the town in more detail. I have come across several places inside and outside the walls but have never ventured into conversation. I am thinking of buying a condo close to the Shangri La hotel.

ShawMan74
06-27-19, 08:01
I am thinking of living in Thailand, if not permanently then at least 5 months out of the year. I am wondering what is the best place to go for my purposes. My checklist is:

1) Hot, but not too hot.

2) Mountainous, but not so as it is too difficult to walk (hopefully the elevation will make it cooler as well).

3) Quiet, but I can still get laid when the mood takes me.

4) Facilities, food, eating places not too far away.

I might also add:

5) Cheap.

Although if I choose to buy somewhere, I might pay more in order to get more rental income when I am not there.

Tricky, because everything is a trade-off.

I had my honeymoon in Chiang Mai and liked it there, though more in the mountains would be better. There may even be areas around Phuket that are reasonably mountainous.Lamai in koh samui is pretty much perfect for you. Maybe not the mountain you want but otherwise perfect.

Buksida1
06-27-19, 08:20
I have visited Chiang Mai several times, occasionally for longer spells. For three year I have considered buying a condo to live part of he year here. Whereas I enjoy a certain aspect of life in Thailand greatly, it would be nice to add a new dimension to this. I am trying to identify locations where older western expat men meet for a drink and a chat and possibly exploring the town in more detail. I have come across several places inside and outside the walls but have never ventured into conversation. I am thinking of buying a condo close to the Shangri La hotel.Hi,

I have spent a lot of time in Chiang Mai. It is full of retirees from many countries. The biggest problem is the insane pollution problem from about February to May. Many people leave during that time period.

KneeHowGuys
08-19-20, 02:20
Hi,

I have spent a lot of time in Chiang Mai. It is full of retirees from many countries. The biggest problem is the insane pollution problem from about February to May. Many people leave during that time period.Hi!

I'm new to the forum. Who might be good to PM to ask about what men would have done earlier in their lives to better set themselves up to be sexpats in places like Thailand?

Aside from just make more money obviously.

Nomes2015
12-25-22, 03:04
Hi, can anyone recommend a legit site to give me the latest info on the requirements for retiring to Thailand.

Seems to be a lot of variation in the sites I have viewed.

I currently live in Vietnam and the visa requirements there are just crazy since Covid.

Thanks.