i get what you mean ,i once went to play golf in thailand and put my clubs at a golf club and never played a hole but got alot of holes in one ,wink wink .picked the clubs up 6 months later
Lol Hahaha, I didn't see you, I was there for 3 week in Dec - Jan 2024. #Pattaya #Bangkok. I was all about the Thai food in the food courts 👌. As for the Thai women I didn't get drag in to the honey trap game. Its their job to lure you in to part with your cash drinking its your strong will to just smile chat with them and walk away.
The issue here isn't Thailand not being as cheap as we think...it's about personal self-control. I'm not a bar fly (at almost 61, not looking for love) and if I budget for one or two more expensive western meals per week while having local food the rest of the time (which is probably healthier for you anyway) I'll stick to it. I still think it's reasonable to live in Thailand reasonably well for $1,000 a month and like a king for $2,000 a month. Now if someone wastes their money on girls and booze then it's a whole different story.
@@TravelGlitchapart from insinuating that a lack of discipline is inherent in most and that it was kinda inevitable! To be fair mate as a personal trainer you kinda shot yourself in the foot! U came on and said I failed here, here and here but it’s likely u will too! Telling people they should adapt their budget for a lack of discipline rather than be more disciplined! You basically showed a complete lack of discipline in most elements of your life! Food, drink women! All got the better of you! Honestly mate, sort it out! U were on to a winner and u have let yourself down! I’m sorry but I can’t hide my disappointment! Fuck sake man! U had it made! Me and the Mrs were watching and said, oh shit he is fucking up! It was obvious you were going off track and you didn’t self correct! You’re young and these things happen but don’t avoid accountability. Self examination is the corner stone of growth and you need to reflect on where it went wrong rather than give yourself excuses! All the best to You mate, hope this doesn’t come across as too harsh but really I wanted and expected more from you. Take care mate.
Completly agree. As I was listening to this bit of the video my mind immediatly was saying "this is just a lack of any sort of self-control and 'being on holiday syndrome'". If you're actually living in a place you ashouldn't have this mentality.
To be honest, i just moved to Thailand. Stayed in Koh Samui, Phuket and now Pataya. Me and the Mrs. Are going by just fine on about 1500 per month. And that's even without long term rental prices. Dont waste your money here on the hookers and booze. Just use the environment, nice weather and beautiful beaches to relax so you can come back home and work again.
@@user-gi5nv3br6m You are only telling on yourself. Not everyone has a personality disorder that makes them behave like a perpetually bored, sexually depraved drunkard who lacks impulse control. Some people a psychologically healthy, they don't get bored easily, and they don't need to get drunk and pay an attractive female to fluff up their ever-deflating ego. Yes, seriously. If you are under the age of 27 and male, your sex drive is going to drive you to behave like that. Over the age of 27, it is not normative and, in fact, your brain is fully wired into the prefrontal cortex by 27, and your skull is about to fuse together fully (age 30). If you have an underlying personality disorder, you will never emotionally mature or grow up.
Wow! When I saw you’ve left Thailand my jaw dropped! I think a lot of the issues are location and mind set. I lived in Spain in my 20s and got the majority of the partying out of my system. So, going to Thailand in my 30s, I wasn’t interested in the bars, and also I lived in Chiang mai which is worlds apart from somewhere like Pattaya. So I had a lovely relaxed time with no issues regarding productivity and spending. Anyway mate, you seem like a really nice guy so I genuinely hope you achieve everything you want to achieve. You’re a good content creator, highlighted by the fact I watched the entire 40 mins !! Regards mate, David :)
Years ago I spend nearly 2 years in Bangkok. It was a lot of fun, but I can relate to many things raised in this video. I decided to leave and move to another country because I felt a certain void after a while. I have never been into alcohol, bars and shallow conversations in broken English. There still are plenty of great places to go to in Thailand (especially Bangkok). What was missing for me was a more productive life/work opportunities and a more western wage. I still love going to Thailand. My father has a place in the sticks. Nothing beats reading books in a junge setting and spotting a snake at 6 am, but I definitely do not miss that bar crowd.
Exactly how I feel. My Cousin has been living in Thailand for a few years and every time I come, he and his friends is always pressuring me to go to this bar or that club or get with this girl or that. I am in my 30s, I am not a Bar guy anymore. His life, is not my life. Their is this mentality where some people cant leave others alone, where they pressure you to think and act like them. Im not him, I like my life the way it is, I like being productive and being less distracted. I am happy. But if im not hitting the bars all the time, then im "boring" or "miserable". What really makes me unhappy is being pushed to live someone else's life. Ive been to Thailand lots of times, that I am out of that "Vacation mode", when im here I also want a balance where I am living like a normal person, who is productive, budgets, and aims for better relationships. And sometimes I just want to hide in my place and get work done, and on the weekend ill go out. Is that wrong? Ive learned to accept that my life in Canada isint that bad. And if you want to actually LIVE in Thailand like a normal person, you cant treat it like a Vacation 7 days a week. Some people are just jaded with their Western lives and get sucked into this "mirage", where the grass is always greener in Thailand or elsewhere. Once the "honeymoon" wears off, you will encounter cons of being there.
Well said yu are a man of integrity one of a few because most men have the mentally of bang as many girls even though yu are still young my respects for yu yu are making a wise decision yu won’t have all those problems with partying and throwing money at women for nothing because pleasure it’s only minutes afterwards yu end up broke and messed up ggod blessings to you
I am not a big bar person or drinker any more and would only do it on occasions and of cause there are the girls - I would enjoy the food and other things Thailand has to offer and I enjoy the peace and quiet back at apartment - I never get lonely oddly enough even in the west I find something to do always - I think I would be very happy in Thailand 3 Months or so at a time
Some dudes are just one trick pony nothing else wire's their brain just chasing the box 📦 of Bar Girls in Asia. There is more to Asia than chasing 'cute' chick's.
Brother you nailed it 100% I’ve been here in Thailand 3 years and everything you said is spot on, be careful what you wish for there are pros but a lot more cons come see for yourself
Two words - SELF DISCIPLINE and everyone thinking of moving and living in Thailand should know this before they go, if you can do this - then there won’t be any problems whatsoever. All you need to do is try an extended holiday before you move, say perhaps 4-6 weeks- then you will know if you can do this. I’ve visited Thailand on 32 occasions since 2005, averaging around 10-14 days each time and to be honest I’m sick of drinking after about a week - so if I make the move in alittle over two years, I know for a fact that I don’t want to be drinking day in day out. I really can’t believe you’ve returned to the UK where it’s going to cost you far more to live😧
I think you meant in two weeks. I agree. Bar girl bars are for tourists or old expats w big retirements. Anyway it’s boring. Or go to a real Thai soi dive bar for normal bar experience
Can you comment on the off season in a place like Pattaya? I'm coming on June 1st for a few months and want to spend most of my time in Pattaya while maybe spending 1 week in Phuket, Chiang Mai, etc. Is it a good move or a bad move to go in the off season? I'm not going to lie I'm gonna do some things with women I would never do in the west (hint: freelancers).
This is the most real and honest video about living in Thailand! I'm Thai and I tell my foreign friends the same things. The sad thing is I always have to end up saying "I told you so" to them lol
I've watched lots and lots of videos about Thailand and spent a month there in 2022. This is one of the best videos I've seen about Thailand. Unfortunately, it's unlikely that the very people who would benefit from your warnings will take them seriously. I traveled alone for part of my trip, and as a senior, I had no problem spending evenings in my hotel room watching Netflix but I can see how that would be more difficult for young people. It's surprisingly easy to blow through a lot of money in Thailand.
Totally agree, I blew over $3000 Australian dollars in 7 days in Phuket. Meeting new people, Island hopping and shouting drinks. I couldn't even imagine what 6 months would look like. Top advice lad. 👍
For me I like having a relationship with a girlfriend, if only for companionship. But to meet one in Thailand is not easy, avoid the bars, clubs etc. Massage shops can be a better option, get a foot massage and you have the opportunity to have a conversation. Or chatting to shop girls whatever. Eventually you will find a suitable girl you want to be with!
Great video. I see so many videos that say Thailand is all rainbows and unicorns. Very few people talk about the down side of living there. Thanks for the honesty.
Keeping control of your spending,living on a budget and being sensible on a week to week basis and of course avoid the girls or limit them it is still a cheap place to be living.
@@Phucket24 If the only reason someone comes here are the bar girls then they don't really care to understand and experience the country and culture. And that is fine. To each their own and live and let live. But I find that to be sad because the country has a lot to offer outside of the red light areas. If one is coming here for a week or two then that is understandable but to live here one has to be in living mode and not vacation mode 24/7 because that is not sustainable. Guys go broke here trying to be on vacation 24/7 when they claim that they want to live here. Living is many times a boring and quiet life no different then being in ones home country. Can't always have an exciting night out. If someone can't be happy reading a book or watching TV at home cooking their own meals most of the time then they won't make it here for long.
I doff my cap to you lasting so long in Pattaya. After 4 days I’m done with the constant noise and bright lights. It’s good to get over jet lag on arrival from the uk, after that I head to Hua Hin. I don’t do bars on a nightly basis but I find Hua Hin has everything just in smaller doses. Feels a bit more Thai to me than Pattaya or Phuket. Spent some time in Ubon Ratchathani aswell, now that’s one chilled and relaxed city.
I stayed in Thailand for 3 months on one trip. I practiced what you said here. I spent many a night at home in my apartment watching tv. To make sure I had things to do, I also brought my laptop. I had my internet access at high speed so I could access my STEAM account so I could game just like I do at home. In addition to this, I began buying books online and really upped my reading. This kept my mind busy and gave me another outlet to occupy my time. It also helped me that I am more of a loner as is. I am totally fine with being by myself. In fact, many times I prefer my solace. Seeing associates or friends every few days for 30 minutes to an hour is exactly what I like, and a true representation of how I socialize at home in the U.S. I also consider myself to be a “people watcher”. I can sit on the beach, at a restaurant, a coffee shop and just watch the world go by for hours and be perfectly content. I did a lot also during my 3 month stay. Luckily for me, since the onset of the Pandemic in 2019/20 I took up running and have developed a love for it. This has become a 4 or 5 time a week regimen for me. Yet another way to use your time in Thailand without drinking/partying and spending a lot of money. I know it’s easier said than done, but it’s worked wonders for me, and I plan and hope to implement it again during my next trip.
If i repeat the exact same routine in Thailand as in my home country i will only need 700 Euro every month, rent included. Most come here and it's like cheap Disneyland. You have holiday mode and Living here mode. Holiday mode is always expensive. Do i eat out 3 times a day, massage every other day, 3 times a week to the bar, every week go to the movies, etc when i'm home in Europe....? Absolutely not. Best advice is to get out the holiday mode as fast as possible.
When you decide to live in Thailand you should be aiming to live exactly the same lifestyle as you lived in the west unless of course you were struggling. If you were failing back home chances are you'll end up failing here. I believe if you want to move here do it because you want to live in Thailand and not for wanting to live a high life.
what is crazy is that in the US to have a decent retirement you need between 5K-8K per month with a paid-off house. Yet that type of monthly income you would live like a king in Thailand. Also for us men, it is so hard to justify a life that is fast approaching the end when your partner is all about watching TV, visiting her friends for cards, or seeing the grandkids and looking at you like you are some kind of pervert wanting to be intimate once or twice a month., when again you know places like Thailand exist.
I am from the US and I've been living here since March 2023. People have asked me to compare it to the US. The simplest comparison I can make is that you can live here cheap or you can live like a king, and that depends on your budget. But, in Thailand, you can feel safe regardless of which path you choose, cheap or king. But, in the US, you cannot do that. If your budget is low in the US, then you'll have to live in a low income neighborhood, and that can be very dangerous, but if your budget is high, then you'll be safe. This guy sounds like he is lonely or weak-minded or has no self-control, or some combination of the 3. If your budget is around $1100 (about 40,000 tbt), and you simply want to explore and experience the food and culture, you'll be fine. It's what I have, and I travel, eat very well, feel safe, live comfortably. and most months I don't use it all, and I roll it over to the next month. This guy sounds like a complainer and I would take what he says with a grain of salt.
Excellent advice for single men thinking about living in Thailand. I am married, retired and probably can easily avoid all those "traps" about spending more money on "volume" since the cost of living is so much cheaper in Thailand. I live a simple life in the United States and would do the same if I moved to Thailand. Watching your video with interest becasue one of my sons is exploring Thailand now. Good luck with your ventures. You sound like a grounded, smart young man. Good luck.
I have been living in Thailand for the past 5 years. I was lucky to find a great job, and now I'm running my own business here. I just turned 30, and as I look back, I realize how lucky and blessed I am. Totalt agree with you, its really hard to live in thailand affordable with so many options we have gere. If you ever visit Bangkok, let me know, and we can grab a beer!
Can you recommend some practrical inexpensive budget hotels that do daily or weekly budget rates. Not Airbnb Agoda bookings etc, there inflated to cover their massive fees, and fat commissions
@@Wilko11 I think it is travel related business. You cannot compete with local people in business unless you are very fluent in Thai language or you have good sum of capital to invest
It was always my dream to live in Pattaya after going there my 1st time in 2011.. but I choose to work in uk 9 months a year and live like a king for 3 months out there and it works perfectly. Overwise exactly like this happens and you have very lonely days
I'm planning my first multi-month stay in Thailand starting June 1st. Can you comment on Pattaya in the off season? Good move? Bad move? I'm hoping it's even cheaper with better opportunities..........
I agree. 3 months travelling around SE Asia seems is a good idea. Already done it for 2 months and enjoyed it. Stuck in the same place, doing nothing productive will become quite lonely after a well.
Wow! Lots of great honest advice. I’m retired and a frequent visitor to Thailand (not just Pattaya) and I completely agree with you. There are so many traps in Pattaya and I see it in others constantly but they don’t realize it like you do. I also admire your drive to make more out of your life and place yourself where you can focus and achieve the most. I see too many UA-cam vloggers in Thailand who are trying to make a career out of it but perhaps don’t realize that their ultimate goal in life over the long term is in all likelihood not achievable. My best wishes to you. You seem to have your priorities right.
Diving into the Pattaya scene and never checking out Thailand is the overall takeaway. If you’re a normal traveler, and understand self control, you won’t need to worry much. But let’s admit it, most single guys going to Thailand aren’t trying to see all the temples, ride elephants, check out the floating market, etc etc. Thailand is amazing, and your experience can be almost whatever you make it.
Thailand is a good holiday spot but it can drag you down in your career imo. I am earning a good salary here in London, wouldnt move there before retirement. I visit Pattaya 1-2 times a year as a single man and pretty happy. Welcome back to UK hope all works out for you.
@@KKLKK2210 not neccessarily. you have to factor in things like tax optimization and cost of living too. it's not just what you earn, it's what you can put in your pocket.
Monk mode is best at home with no distraction. Once you business really take off and you reach cruising speed, Then you can go anywhere you want. But yeah important to be disciplined, otherwise temptation is too great to get lost.
Go live in the farmlands of Thailand and the smaller towns and you can easily live an enjoyable lifestyle without going off the rails. It's all about self-control and your mindset. Don't always need the bright lights and beautiful women around all of the time. I like to stay home and relax and save money. Plus in the non tourist towns you can easily save money for holidays and travel around and then come home and relax for a while. Either stay single or find a good farm girl in a smaller town and live your life. I've been in Thailand for a year and a half now and I'm doing way better than I was doing in the states. Good luck to all, use common sense and follow your instincts.
I'm in my mid 50's and am about to semi-retire in Thailand. My biggest concern is falling into a life with no structure that bottoms out my mental health. I don't want to get so lazy that I end up like a monk living in an air-conditioned highrise cell. My plan is to move to Bangkok, keep my side hustles going, and get an apartment while setting up an office at a digital office park. This way, I can get up early, dress up, and work in a professional environment, surrounded by other digital nomads for inspiration and collaboration. I plan on pretty much keeping my non-work schedule the same. Joining a local jiu-jitsu club, working out at a gym, shopping, meal prepping and getting my runs in. I'd much rather make friends in a professional or athletic setting than in the bar scene. And when I want to have some fun, I'll spend my weekends in Pattaya. Rule number one: NEVER bring a Thai girl to your residence. I have zero intentions of having any girlfriends-just weekend bar girls. Then after 6 months, do a reality check. I'll make an assessment at that time if I want to stay in BKK, move up north, or move back to the US. I'm looking forward to the relocation, but I have no illusions Thailand would be my forever home.
Inviting sex workers to your home as an expat isn't exactly the best idea. It can raise eyebrows among your Thai neighbors or other civilized expats and potentially compromise your safety. The last thing I need is some bar girls boyfriend figuring out my routine and ambushing me for cash. Now, if I were on the hunt for a lifelong partner and had nothing but pure intentions, I'd consider moving a non bar girl in. However, after 30 years of marriage, I think I’ll need another 30 years to fully recover!
As someone who early retired on dividends this year my experience is the key is to get out of holiday mode. thankfully I'm now out of it. most days I eat müsli for breakfast and cook myself for dinner. I'm an introvert so some days I'm not even leaving the apartment. I stopped drinking alcohol and I'm not going to nightclubs. I like metal so the music there is trash for me and honestly most girls there are trash too. Met my gf in a café. We're going Dutch on dates, she makes her own money. I'm spending time on learning languages, I go to the gym, climbing, hiking, beach, meetups, boardgame club, meeting friends and more. I'm busy. If you're not busy and struggle to "kill" time you're doing something wrong and more likely to waste money.
The dopamine effect is powerful and you explained it very well. It applies to both sexes. Glad you warned men about how it works on you and your budget.
Don't stay only in Pattaya. You've travel around Thailand, because it's an amazing country and transportation is very cheap. I've travelled for 1. 1/2 year through Thailand
Great video, bro! Appreciate the advice from the perspective having lived there. Just came back from my first trip to Thailand and loved it enough to want to return more often. Cheers!
I have followed your channel a lot since it is a Thailand channel Ryan. Sad to see that you are giving up working on the channel and moving home. Good luck with your fitness business and whatever other ventures you decide on. You certainly nailed it with this channel in the short space of time you worked on it. I can totally understand why you didn't continue with the channel though, especially when you are a health conscious kind of person. Pattaya and the bar scene definitely doesn't mix with someone who wants to stay in shape. There are way too many temptations in Pattaya, especially in the bar scene with women and alcohol....plus all of the problems these can lead to.
Come and enjoy your time in Thailand when you feel enough with living in Thailand then design to move somewhere else you feel like to make your life satisfied , it ok to feeling boring some times in the same places, your life your choices you can manage where to go and don’t worry at all because Thai people always welcomes people around the world at any times . Thai people just wished you returned to Thailand again at any time ❤
Simple - don't live in Pattaya. There is so much more to Thailand than Pattaya, remove the temptations, live somewhere without them. You can always take a break and visit Pattaya when you feel the need.
Cant wait my 1st trip to thailand and the Philippines next month will be checking out what place i like better a month each to find out where im going to live for a few years not into the bar scene kinda a loner but if i meet someone great if i dont cool so excited watching all these channels
I live in a busy town in Thailand and have been able to work in monk mode for 2.5 years. To stay motivated, you have to remember your goal, shut down distractions, and treat yourself once in a while.
Damn Ryan, You are tearing my heart, I just filled out my application for a Smart Startup Visa in Thailand, partly due to Your videos about Thailand - In Your early videos I really felt a sense of joy, energy and good vibes - something You missed in more recent ones, Your eyes just weren't that happy anymore. I guess You play it wrong by not trying more to find hobby clubs and similar-minded people who are not into the beer and bar scene. Somebody who You can travel with, have an evening jogging, talk about business etc. Anyway, I hope that, if You will visit Thailand again, I will still be there and we can go drink beer in a bar and judge people who cross by
Completly agree with you re tipping. Hacks me off when I see people not tipping or giving the typical 10% tip to these guys when they've done a great job. In local eating places, even doubling the bill for a tip meansd it's cost me only 2 or 3 pounds (£). That's nothing to me as a westerner but means everything to the locals. It also really hacks me off when I see westerners haggle the price with locals for the sake of a few baht. If the local is taking the piss then by all means but normally they just want to make a living.
1st time I've seen you channel/output as a younger guy, well a lot younger than me being 65. It's very easy in be sucked into a lazy lifestyle, once boots are on the ground if your here for any lenght of time. I had thought about retirement here but I don't think I have the self discipline to live year round. I'm more of a snowbird from the UK looking to spend the winter months here which I might then develop into a 3 months on 3 months off cycle, so 6 months of the year. As for Pattaya, it had the best of both regarding nightlife partying etc also i'ts a great place to base yourself because of cost to explore all other places. Depending on your budget lifestyle etc you can have an extremely cost effective time here, far cheaper than the UK currently. Jom tien has more of the vibe I now want whilst I very, very occaisionly go the the main drag in Pattaya for a walkabout.
I love the craziness that Pattaya has to offer and i have no problem to "control" myself and keeping a healthy daily routine. Having a decent Lady helps with that of course. I'm 39 and i live on average 5 months in Thailand and 7 months in Belgium each year. Would love to move full time but the money i make in Belgium is something i can never make in Thailand. Make the money in the West , live frugal and you can have a good life and place in Thailand and Europe at the same time.
Are you ever in Pattaya in the off season? I'm doing my first multi-month visit starting June 1st. I'm hoping the off season provides an even cheaper stay and better opportunties................but as I finish this message I'm realizing you are probably there in the winter months lol.
@@ascendant95 i'm in Jomtien during July and August with my daughter. Its more quiet during the wet season. December till april is high season and very busy in Pattaya.
I do the exact same thing brother...I think it's a fine thing the way you're doing it now (thought I work for 1-2 years and then stay in Thailand for 1-2 years instead), once you get older you can choose to stay a place like that, or Vietnam, for longer.
Been here 28 years. Train and work all week. Stay away from hookers. Saved way more than I would have back in the UK. That said, I rarely drink. A lot easier here to get ahead financially than the UK.
What if someone just went throught a tough divorce and they need the freelancer experience for the first time in their life? lol Would it be better for someone like that during the off season starting in say........June?
@@gsomethingsomething2658 Thank you for responding. I'm really looking forward to my trip. It's gonna be really hot in June/July/August..................but I'm so excited.
The problem is the place you picked, I have been to Pattaya and the bars are definitely a big distraction and I visited them often, I’ve spent a month in Chiang Mai and didn’t go to any bar. If you want to put your head down and work, Pattaya isn’t the place for that.
Self-control !!! I've lived in Thailand going on 11 months. People "burn their pockets" because they lack self-control and/or don't have income security or enough of it to spend more casually. I love Thailand. I've been all over the world with the US Army, now retired. It's the same anywhere you travel to. Sel-control. Live within your wage. Stay blessed everyone!
@@TravelGlitch Yeah, I mean, if you're coming to Thailand to travel, do you, party and burn through the money you want. Just make sure your return flight is paid and booked beforehand lol If you're coming to stay long or for good, do as the locals do or close enough and you'll be OK.
People are always comparing and debating...... comparing living in Bangkok versus Pattaya..... comparing living in Thailand versus USA...... I say...... The solution is..... 55% of the time in USA 🇺🇸 45% of the time in Thailand 🇹🇭 And when in Thailand..... 50% of the time in Pattaya 50% of the time in Bangkok ......is the best of all worlds.
The issue about cheap price things add up, this the same thing as shopping habits. I love cheap fashion clothes so I buy a lot. If I spend 1000THB on 1 dress I might buy 1 a month. But as it costs only 250 I tend to buy 6, ending up spending more.
Yes - you'll often see vloggers breakfasting on a huge plateful of Western food, crowing how cheap it is at 250-300 baht. But multiply that x365 and it comes to 100,000 a year just for breakfast. That would get you the best health insurance going.
True, I gof in Thailand about 6 times on a 3 week vacation, which costs about $100 USD per round. At home I might golf once a month at a cost of $20 on a Muni course. Also I never go to bars here in the US, but in Thailand it’s a nightly thing.
That’s good information and a very compelling point. A person on a retirement budget needs to keep with the budget. I think that the fact that very nice accommodations and good food can be had for at least 30% of the cost in the west makes Thailand and other southeast Asian countries very hospitable for persons on a fixed income.
It is you can live good for 300 thai baht per day if you know were to eat it’s the bars and girls and obviously if you live somewhere you are not on holiday mode but £1000 per month is easy to live on and Thailand is a big place not just Pattaya chaing Mia your young and you sow your oats have self control
I lived there for 10 years. I dearly, dearly miss it... but salaries are just so much better in other parts of Asia. I'm still in Asia, but Thailand is no longer where I live.
I'm going to visit for the first time this summer starting June 1st until maybe Octoberish. I'm planning on spending most of my time in Thailand with quick trips to Cambodia and Vietnam. Do you think its a good move to go in the off season if I'm cheap and want the best opportunites with freelancers? lol Sorry it is what it is. If you knew what the last 2 years were like for me in the woman department you would have mercy and pity on me. :)
@@ascendant95 Uhm... I can give you advice on that, but Your mileage is definitely going to vary. Off season is hit-or-miss in that department, and "being cheap" is a very relative thing. Also "Freelancers" are not a good bet in any case, (Depending on what you mean by 'freelancers.') My best advice is to go with an open mind, a willingness to spend some money, but a hard budget that you know you won't go over. Realize that you're going to get price gouged, but smile and enjoy the experience for what it is. Be polite and friendly, and have a good sense of humor, and you'll have a good time. Go over there looking to complain about stuff, and you'll have a bad time. You get out of Thailand what you put into it. The people are sweet, friendly, and generally good natured... but be realistic... they want you to spend your money. That's what they're there for. Don't expect more than that, and go with the flow, man.
Great video! I think you would have done much better in Chiangmai as a digital nomad/entrepreneur. Pattaya is exactly the opposite of what I would consider a digital nomad hub. All the best with your journey!
This video is spot and to lots of it I can relate too. Speaking of the dopamine rush. I actually have a note in my phone just to remind me… I understand this channels has run its course though I’m gonna miss your videos. I liked your take on things. Very interested though in your take on how to grow fast on UA-cam. Definitely hope you’ll make that videos. Cheers and good luck
Thank you for this honest summary of your experience in Pattaya, most of your content was very helpful for me right from the beginning. Good luck back in the UK.
I'm a 100% Total and permanent US military disabled 19.3 years time in service. What is it like with league play over there? Darts, pool, bowling, pickle ball/racket ball and etc.? Hiking camping groups? If you still have physical capabilities and can do similar activities to include staying extra fit and chiseled at the gym, you should be able to keep yourself gainfully employed to avoid boredome and seeking booze and other bad decisions, no?
As someone who smokes weed and plays world of Warcraft for 11-12 hours a day in the west I have none of these issues and will live a nice life in Thailand 😂
Saying mai ouw kraup to taxi drivers in my experience has almost always gotten a thank you in return. I also use the Set laew joke as well 😂 brilliant way to create humour from a no. Only just discovered you. And you're quitting 😂
I was in Thailand end of 2022 to early 2023 after not coming for a decade. I've spent 3 months living in central Pattaya. I never set any foot in a bar not even Walking Street. Netflix at night was my prefered distraction.
Are freelancers cheaper in the off season? Knowing the answer to that does not imply that you've used their services it should be common knowledge for someone who lived there lol. :)
I totally agree all these self righteous people I go to Pattaya I don’t drink I don’t go out I don’t pick up girls I don’t eat I don’t fart I don’t swim then why the FuK are you in Thailand?????
You bring up some really good points my man. I'm just back from 3 months in Pattaya, partying almost every night. It does catch up with you eventually and I was starting to feel really burnt out in the last few weeks. Despite that though, I'm planning to move out there soon and you've voiced a lot of things that I already know but didn't think about out loud. Good stuff man. I'm still pulling the trigger though, wish me luck 😝
For me to live in another county would be to live a better life. What's the point of moving and having to budget in order to survive will not be what i would personally want. If you can't go out or eat out often or travel frequently, then it's not for me. Thailand used to be cheap in 20+ years ago, but last year i found it awfully expensive. ( for me as we like to do a lot and eat good food) E.g Taxi from Kamala to pattaya was approx 500 TB each journey. I wouldn't be able to live off £1,000/£2,000 a month i would need a house with a pool for starters 😂 not boxed up in a small high rise. Thanks for being true and pointing out that not everything is as perfect as some others say.
what I do is this: work for a year or two...then I take an entire "break" (though not really, usually climb mountains or alike) and then I'm going to a year in Thailand, Vietnam or alike...I "retire" early for a year for then to work hard for 1-2 years again and still have plenty of money left...this is a model I find much better and gives one more value where you get the best of both worlds. I'm not going to wait until I'm 70+ to retire: I might be dead by then, I can probably not move as much as all, my "wife" might have broken up with me and taken half of my wealth; why not just take the freedom for yourself right now?
I stayed in Pattaya in the late 90's but I was addicted to golf , not the other stuff . I played 6 days a week apart from sunday because I watched football saturday night . I had a separate stint in 2004 when I bought my girlfriend an annex to her parent's house for £3,500 in Thabo , Nong Khai , and stayed there very happily for a few months before coming back home for work and unfortunately had an accident while home and never made it back. Still saddens me. I will go back in a few year's time when I retire but that ship has sailed and I will probably go to live south of Hua Hin somewhere on the beach . Still a nice though .
To be honest when I worked in the building trade in the UK it became habit for all us builders to meet up every evening in the pub, I couldn't imagine not going to the pub, some quietened down in their 30s some didn't, it doesn't matter where you are, it becomes habitual, I can see your point that it's on hand but it's the same in the UK , just costs more
You should be self sufficient before moving there. The key is to have an income stream. That might be taking 4% from a portfolio a year, a pension or both. I would think for $3K/mo you could basically do whatever you want to and live quite well in Pattaya. $500/mo for rent and utilities, would leave you around $2,500 mo. If you take out phone, food, transportation and health insurance for another $500, that would leave roughly $2K for entertainment and drinking. If you can’t get by on that, you have issues.
It's too bad you quit UA-cam. You put out good content, are good in front of the camera, and are down to earth. So much better than that Jasper in Philippines chap that always talks down to you.
I think the biggest problem is people go on holiday to places like Sin City, have a great time, and in some cases, it's the best holiday they've ever had. They move out there, holiday for 2 or 3 months & then bang, the novelty has worn off. Pattaya is not for Me, never has been, too full on, but then again somewhere like Hua Hin is also not for Me, it's like you're living in holiday mode year-round. My Thai wife & I are setting up home in rural Cha Am, about 10-15 minutes from the beach, amongst real-life Thais, so My retirement will be not a lot different than if we were here in the London suburbs, just with better weather & food. Thailand is a very addictive place, especially if you are single & a drinker, it's very very easy to get caught up in the expat drinking culture, which if ya not careful will end up killing you. I know guys that have been going out to Thailand for 20+ years, all they know about is Pattaya & have a totally distorted view of what living in Thailand is all about, as Pattaya is all they know. Good luck to you & your future, I hope you find what you are looking for.
Thank you very much for sharing your experiences and your thoughts. 👍 Lots of people are chasing the dopamine rush. Sex, drugs, Rock'n'Roll and food give you a lot of dopamine. You are quite young, and made the best desicion for you. I'm old and will retire in two years, and so I'm thinking about moving to Pattaya. Vids like yours help me to be aware of the traps and dangers. Well done mate. Cheers.
Write a budget on a piece of paper and try to stick to it. If u can work a little bit online, do it. It can help buffer the budget. Ignore the ladies, have a few cheap drinks and go home.
Thank you for the video. 3 months travelling around SE Asia seems a better idea. Already done it for 2 months and enjoyed it. Stuck in the same place, doing nothing productive, even if it is making videos will become quite lonely/dull after a well. I've seen to many miserable old men in Thailand to realize this is the case.
Lastly, Merry Christmas everyone, and hope that 2024 brings you all the blessings ❤👊
i get what you mean ,i once went to play golf in thailand and put my clubs at a golf club and never played a hole but got alot of holes in one ,wink wink .picked the clubs up 6 months later
You would probably do better in Chaing Mai or Bangkok. I wonder how the adjustment to your normal life will be.
Lol Hahaha, I didn't see you, I was there for 3 week in Dec - Jan 2024. #Pattaya #Bangkok. I was all about the Thai food in the food courts 👌. As for the Thai women I didn't get drag in to the honey trap game. Its their job to lure you in to part with your cash drinking its your strong will to just smile chat with them and walk away.
I'm really looking forward to the video you mentioned you might make regarding growing a UA-cam channel quickly!
this dude went to Thailand and fucked his brains out, this video is him telling every1 to have self control lol
The issue here isn't Thailand not being as cheap as we think...it's about personal self-control. I'm not a bar fly (at almost 61, not looking for love) and if I budget for one or two more expensive western meals per week while having local food the rest of the time (which is probably healthier for you anyway) I'll stick to it. I still think it's reasonable to live in Thailand reasonably well for $1,000 a month and like a king for $2,000 a month. Now if someone wastes their money on girls and booze then it's a whole different story.
Very true! Similar to what I said in the video
@@TravelGlitchapart from insinuating that a lack of discipline is inherent in most and that it was kinda inevitable! To be fair mate as a personal trainer you kinda shot yourself in the foot! U came on and said I failed here, here and here but it’s likely u will too! Telling people they should adapt their budget for a lack of discipline rather than be more disciplined! You basically showed a complete lack of discipline in most elements of your life! Food, drink women! All got the better of you! Honestly mate, sort it out! U were on to a winner and u have let yourself down! I’m sorry but I can’t hide my disappointment! Fuck sake man! U had it made! Me and the Mrs were watching and said, oh shit he is fucking up! It was obvious you were going off track and you didn’t self correct! You’re young and these things happen but don’t avoid accountability. Self examination is the corner stone of growth and you need to reflect on where it went wrong rather than give yourself excuses! All the best to
You mate, hope this doesn’t come across as too harsh but really I wanted and expected more from you. Take care mate.
Completly agree. As I was listening to this bit of the video my mind immediatly was saying "this is just a lack of any sort of self-control and 'being on holiday syndrome'". If you're actually living in a place you ashouldn't have this mentality.
The girls can see a sucker coming a mile away....😂
This.
To be honest, i just moved to Thailand. Stayed in Koh Samui, Phuket and now Pataya. Me and the Mrs. Are going by just fine on about 1500 per month. And that's even without long term rental prices. Dont waste your money here on the hookers and booze. Just use the environment, nice weather and beautiful beaches to relax so you can come back home and work again.
Hi, can u tell me which Visa you are using? At the moment I only find visa not working for me.
you wanted to, dont lie
@@user-gi5nv3br6m- are you all knowing?! Take your useless comments elsewhere.
@@user-gi5nv3br6m You are only telling on yourself. Not everyone has a personality disorder that makes them behave like a perpetually bored, sexually depraved drunkard who lacks impulse control. Some people a psychologically healthy, they don't get bored easily, and they don't need to get drunk and pay an attractive female to fluff up their ever-deflating ego. Yes, seriously.
If you are under the age of 27 and male, your sex drive is going to drive you to behave like that. Over the age of 27, it is not normative and, in fact, your brain is fully wired into the prefrontal cortex by 27, and your skull is about to fuse together fully (age 30). If you have an underlying personality disorder, you will never emotionally mature or grow up.
Wow! When I saw you’ve left Thailand my jaw dropped! I think a lot of the issues are location and mind set. I lived in Spain in my 20s and got the majority of the partying out of my system. So, going to Thailand in my 30s, I wasn’t interested in the bars, and also I lived in Chiang mai which is worlds apart from somewhere like Pattaya. So I had a lovely relaxed time with no issues regarding productivity and spending. Anyway mate, you seem like a really nice guy so I genuinely hope you achieve everything you want to achieve. You’re a good content creator, highlighted by the fact I watched the entire 40 mins !! Regards mate, David :)
Hey David, thanks for your nice comment, all the best 🙏
Years ago I spend nearly 2 years in Bangkok. It was a lot of fun, but I can relate to many things raised in this video. I decided to leave and move to another country because I felt a certain void after a while. I have never been into alcohol, bars and shallow conversations in broken English. There still are plenty of great places to go to in Thailand (especially Bangkok). What was missing for me was a more productive life/work opportunities and a more western wage. I still love going to Thailand. My father has a place in the sticks. Nothing beats reading books in a junge setting and spotting a snake at 6 am, but I definitely do not miss that bar crowd.
Exactly how I feel. My Cousin has been living in Thailand for a few years and every time I come, he and his friends is always pressuring me to go to this bar or that club or get with this girl or that. I am in my 30s, I am not a Bar guy anymore. His life, is not my life. Their is this mentality where some people cant leave others alone, where they pressure you to think and act like them. Im not him, I like my life the way it is, I like being productive and being less distracted. I am happy. But if im not hitting the bars all the time, then im "boring" or "miserable". What really makes me unhappy is being pushed to live someone else's life. Ive been to Thailand lots of times, that I am out of that "Vacation mode", when im here I also want a balance where I am living like a normal person, who is productive, budgets, and aims for better relationships. And sometimes I just want to hide in my place and get work done, and on the weekend ill go out. Is that wrong? Ive learned to accept that my life in Canada isint that bad. And if you want to actually LIVE in Thailand like a normal person, you cant treat it like a Vacation 7 days a week. Some people are just jaded with their Western lives and get sucked into this "mirage", where the grass is always greener in Thailand or elsewhere. Once the "honeymoon" wears off, you will encounter cons of being there.
Well said yu are a man of integrity one of a few because most men have the mentally of bang as many girls even though yu are still young my respects for yu yu are making a wise decision yu won’t have all those problems with partying and throwing money at women for nothing because pleasure it’s only minutes afterwards yu end up broke and messed up ggod blessings to you
I am not a big bar person or drinker any more and would only do it on occasions and of cause there are the girls - I would enjoy the food and other things Thailand has to offer and I enjoy the peace and quiet back at apartment - I never get lonely oddly enough even in the west I find something to do always - I think I would be very happy in Thailand 3 Months or so at a time
Some dudes are just one trick pony nothing else wire's their brain just chasing the box 📦 of Bar Girls in Asia. There is more to Asia than chasing 'cute' chick's.
Brother you nailed it 100% I’ve been here in Thailand 3 years and everything you said is spot on, be careful what you wish for there are pros but a lot more cons come see for yourself
@@Carolina480 He could bang attractive women and still be a man of integrity.
Two words - SELF DISCIPLINE and everyone thinking of moving and living in Thailand should know this before they go, if you can do this - then there won’t be any problems whatsoever. All you need to do is try an extended holiday before you move, say perhaps 4-6 weeks- then you will know if you can
do this. I’ve visited Thailand on 32 occasions since 2005, averaging around 10-14 days each time and to be honest I’m sick of drinking after about a week - so if I make the move in alittle over two years, I know for a fact that I don’t want to be drinking day in day out.
I really can’t believe you’ve returned to the UK where it’s going to cost you far more to live😧
True!
And fortunately I can move in with my mum again (not ideal) which works out cheaper than Thailand, just boring although I need that 😅
You & your family have a great Christmas 🎄 & peaceful New Year- we will miss your vlogs from Thailand 😟
I think you meant in two weeks. I agree. Bar girl bars are for tourists or old expats w big retirements. Anyway it’s boring. Or go to a real Thai soi dive bar for normal bar experience
Can you comment on the off season in a place like Pattaya? I'm coming on June 1st for a few months and want to spend most of my time in Pattaya while maybe spending 1 week in Phuket, Chiang Mai, etc. Is it a good move or a bad move to go in the off season? I'm not going to lie I'm gonna do some things with women I would never do in the west (hint: freelancers).
@@ascendant95
Each to their own mate... just take care and plenty of money you can afford.
This is the most real and honest video about living in Thailand! I'm Thai and I tell my foreign friends the same things. The sad thing is I always have to end up saying "I told you so" to them lol
Thanks for this. This is one of the most brilliant, sensible posts for anyone who wants to live/retire in Thailand. Really top advice 👍
I've watched lots and lots of videos about Thailand and spent a month there in 2022. This is one of the best videos I've seen about Thailand. Unfortunately, it's unlikely that the very people who would benefit from your warnings will take them seriously. I traveled alone for part of my trip, and as a senior, I had no problem spending evenings in my hotel room watching Netflix but I can see how that would be more difficult for young people. It's surprisingly easy to blow through a lot of money in Thailand.
Totally agree, I blew over $3000 Australian dollars in 7 days in Phuket. Meeting new people, Island hopping and shouting drinks.
I couldn't even imagine what 6 months would look like. Top advice lad. 👍
For me I like having a relationship with a girlfriend, if only for companionship. But to meet one in Thailand is not easy, avoid the bars, clubs etc. Massage shops can be a better option, get a foot massage and you have the opportunity to have a conversation. Or chatting to shop girls whatever. Eventually you will find a suitable girl you want to be with!
Great video. I see so many videos that say Thailand is all rainbows and unicorns. Very few people talk about the down side of living there. Thanks for the honesty.
Yeah this relates well for Poms in tourist cities. Avoid both, I say. And enjoy Thailand better.
Keeping control of your spending,living on a budget and being sensible on a week to week basis and of course avoid the girls or limit them it is still a cheap place to be living.
It’s like going to Blackpool and not riding the big Dipper !!! Why go in the first place
@@Phucket24 A age thing and seeing it for what it is has a lot to do with it..
Netflix is toxic
@@Phucket24 If the only reason someone comes here are the bar girls then they don't really care to understand and experience the country and culture. And that is fine. To each their own and live and let live. But I find that to be sad because the country has a lot to offer outside of the red light areas. If one is coming here for a week or two then that is understandable but to live here one has to be in living mode and not vacation mode 24/7 because that is not sustainable.
Guys go broke here trying to be on vacation 24/7 when they claim that they want to live here. Living is many times a boring and quiet life no different then being in ones home country. Can't always have an exciting night out. If someone can't be happy reading a book or watching TV at home cooking their own meals most of the time then they won't make it here for long.
@@DamienYuen7718 totally agree 100%
I doff my cap to you lasting so long in Pattaya. After 4 days I’m done with the constant noise and bright lights. It’s good to get over jet lag on arrival from the uk, after that I head to Hua Hin. I don’t do bars on a nightly basis but I find Hua Hin has everything just in smaller doses. Feels a bit more Thai to me than Pattaya or Phuket. Spent some time in Ubon Ratchathani aswell, now that’s one chilled and relaxed city.
I stayed in Thailand for 3 months on one trip. I practiced what you said here. I spent many a night at home in my apartment watching tv. To make sure I had things to do, I also brought my laptop. I had my internet access at high speed so I could access my STEAM account so I could game just like I do at home.
In addition to this, I began buying books online and really upped my reading. This kept my mind busy and gave me another outlet to occupy my time. It also helped me that I am more of a loner as is. I am totally fine with being by myself. In fact, many times I prefer my solace. Seeing associates or friends every few days for 30 minutes to an hour is exactly what I like, and a true representation of how I socialize at home in the U.S.
I also consider myself to be a “people watcher”. I can sit on the beach, at a restaurant, a coffee shop and just watch the world go by for hours and be perfectly content. I did a lot also during my 3 month stay. Luckily for me, since the onset of the Pandemic in 2019/20 I took up running and have developed a love for it. This has become a 4 or 5 time a week regimen for me. Yet another way to use your time in Thailand without drinking/partying and spending a lot of money.
I know it’s easier said than done, but it’s worked wonders for me, and I plan and hope to implement it again during my next trip.
If i repeat the exact same routine in Thailand as in my home country i will only need 700 Euro every month, rent included. Most come here and it's like cheap Disneyland. You have holiday mode and Living here mode. Holiday mode is always expensive. Do i eat out 3 times a day, massage every other day, 3 times a week to the bar, every week go to the movies, etc when i'm home in Europe....? Absolutely not. Best advice is to get out the holiday mode as fast as possible.
When you decide to live in Thailand you should be aiming to live exactly the same lifestyle as you lived in the west unless of course you were struggling. If you were failing back home chances are you'll end up failing here. I believe if you want to move here do it because you want to live in Thailand and not for wanting to live a high life.
Stick with UA-cam. You’re a natural! Very interesting to listen too. Something most UA-camrs lack.
Thank you 👌
what is crazy is that in the US to have a decent retirement you need between 5K-8K per month with a paid-off house. Yet that type of monthly income you would live like a king in Thailand. Also for us men, it is so hard to justify a life that is fast approaching the end when your partner is all about watching TV, visiting her friends for cards, or seeing the grandkids and looking at you like you are some kind of pervert wanting to be intimate once or twice a month., when again you know places like Thailand exist.
5k-8k a month and a paid off house???? I don't know what city you live in but it's not nearly that much in most US cities.
@alanm03 I dont need that much, and i lived in NYC. Being debt free even laying $1500 rent, i was making $50k a yr before taxes
I am from the US and I've been living here since March 2023. People have asked me to compare it to the US. The simplest comparison I can make is that you can live here cheap or you can live like a king, and that depends on your budget. But, in Thailand, you can feel safe regardless of which path you choose, cheap or king. But, in the US, you cannot do that. If your budget is low in the US, then you'll have to live in a low income neighborhood, and that can be very dangerous, but if your budget is high, then you'll be safe. This guy sounds like he is lonely or weak-minded or has no self-control, or some combination of the 3. If your budget is around $1100 (about 40,000 tbt), and you simply want to explore and experience the food and culture, you'll be fine. It's what I have, and I travel, eat very well, feel safe, live comfortably. and most months I don't use it all, and I roll it over to the next month. This guy sounds like a complainer and I would take what he says with a grain of salt.
Your advice from your videos are ?
good on you for having the discipline to pull yourself out of distractions to focus on what you want
Excellent advice for single men thinking about living in Thailand. I am married, retired and probably can easily avoid all those "traps" about spending more money on "volume" since the cost of living is so much cheaper in Thailand. I live a simple life in the United States and would do the same if I moved to Thailand. Watching your video with interest becasue one of my sons is exploring Thailand now. Good luck with your ventures. You sound like a grounded, smart young man. Good luck.
I have been living in Thailand for the past 5 years. I was lucky to find a great job, and now I'm running my own business here. I just turned 30, and as I look back, I realize how lucky and blessed I am. Totalt agree with you, its really hard to live in thailand affordable with so many options we have gere.
If you ever visit Bangkok, let me know, and we can grab a beer!
Can you recommend some practrical inexpensive budget hotels that do daily or weekly budget rates.
Not Airbnb Agoda bookings etc, there inflated to cover their massive fees, and fat commissions
Sorry what is your business in Bangkok ? Thanks 👍
Can we talk? I have so many questions and I have an opportunity to move my job where I make 27.50 an hr usd, my pay will be the same.
@@Wilko11 I think it is travel related business. You cannot compete with local people in business unless you are very fluent in Thai language or you have good sum of capital to invest
It was always my dream to live in Pattaya after going there my 1st time in 2011.. but I choose to work in uk 9 months a year and live like a king for 3 months out there and it works perfectly. Overwise exactly like this happens and you have very lonely days
That sounds like something I may do, with some other countries thrown in there too!
@@TravelGlitch so basically holiday frequently 😀to much of anyone place or person or job can be annoying and bad for your health
I'm planning my first multi-month stay in Thailand starting June 1st. Can you comment on Pattaya in the off season? Good move? Bad move? I'm hoping it's even cheaper with better opportunities..........
I agree. 3 months travelling around SE Asia seems is a good idea. Already done it for 2 months and enjoyed it. Stuck in the same place, doing nothing productive will become quite lonely after a well.
@@ascendant95
I wouldn't count on that mate just be a little different that's all in my imo. Youll spend just as much whatever.
Wow! Lots of great honest advice. I’m retired and a frequent visitor to Thailand (not just Pattaya) and I completely agree with you. There are so many traps in Pattaya and I see it in others constantly but they don’t realize it like you do. I also admire your drive to make more out of your life and place yourself where you can focus and achieve the most. I see too many UA-cam vloggers in Thailand who are trying to make a career out of it but perhaps don’t realize that their ultimate goal in life over the long term is in all likelihood not achievable. My best wishes to you. You seem to have your priorities right.
Appreciate your kind comment 👍
Man , this really good info for sure ! Thank you for sharing your experiences. Very interesting to watch !!! Thank you !!!!
Diving into the Pattaya scene and never checking out Thailand is the overall takeaway. If you’re a normal traveler, and understand self control, you won’t need to worry much. But let’s admit it, most single guys going to Thailand aren’t trying to see all the temples, ride elephants, check out the floating market, etc etc. Thailand is amazing, and your experience can be almost whatever you make it.
Welcome back too UK Thailand is paradise , but only if you have a good budget to spend.
good budget mean 1000-2000$/month not need ewer more live good in Thailand all life.
Thailand is a good holiday spot but it can drag you down in your career imo. I am earning a good salary here in London, wouldnt move there before retirement. I visit Pattaya 1-2 times a year as a single man and pretty happy. Welcome back to UK hope all works out for you.
I earn more in Thailand than most people do in London. This is antiquated thinking. There is lots of room for growth and opportunity in asia.
@@Vishypoo If you earn more in Thai you are able to earn more in lot of different countries either.
@@KKLKK2210 not neccessarily. you have to factor in things like tax optimization and cost of living too. it's not just what you earn, it's what you can put in your pocket.
Monk mode is best at home with no distraction. Once you business really take off and you reach cruising speed, Then you can go anywhere you want. But yeah important to be disciplined, otherwise temptation is too great to get lost.
Monk mode is far better in asia. you can rent a room for $100 a month and just focus on work
Go live in the farmlands of Thailand and the smaller towns and you can easily live an enjoyable lifestyle without going off the rails. It's all about self-control and your mindset. Don't always need the bright lights and beautiful women around all of the time. I like to stay home and relax and save money. Plus in the non tourist towns you can easily save money for holidays and travel around and then come home and relax for a while. Either stay single or find a good farm girl in a smaller town and live your life. I've been in Thailand for a year and a half now and I'm doing way better than I was doing in the states. Good luck to all, use common sense and follow your instincts.
I'm in my mid 50's and am about to semi-retire in Thailand. My biggest concern is falling into a life with no structure that bottoms out my mental health. I don't want to get so lazy that I end up like a monk living in an air-conditioned highrise cell. My plan is to move to Bangkok, keep my side hustles going, and get an apartment while setting up an office at a digital office park. This way, I can get up early, dress up, and work in a professional environment, surrounded by other digital nomads for inspiration and collaboration.
I plan on pretty much keeping my non-work schedule the same. Joining a local jiu-jitsu club, working out at a gym, shopping, meal prepping and getting my runs in. I'd much rather make friends in a professional or athletic setting than in the bar scene. And when I want to have some fun, I'll spend my weekends in Pattaya. Rule number one: NEVER bring a Thai girl to your residence. I have zero intentions of having any girlfriends-just weekend bar girls. Then after 6 months, do a reality check. I'll make an assessment at that time if I want to stay in BKK, move up north, or move back to the US. I'm looking forward to the relocation, but I have no illusions Thailand would be my forever home.
What do you mean with bringing a Thai girl to your residence. Do you refer to her moving in or just to casual one night stands?
Inviting sex workers to your home as an expat isn't exactly the best idea. It can raise eyebrows among your Thai neighbors or other civilized expats and potentially compromise your safety. The last thing I need is some bar girls boyfriend figuring out my routine and ambushing me for cash. Now, if I were on the hunt for a lifelong partner and had nothing but pure intentions, I'd consider moving a non bar girl in. However, after 30 years of marriage, I think I’ll need another 30 years to fully recover!
I've just come back from Krabi in Thailand, an amazing place for families.
I like that, you don't have to do nothing and it's okay, save money, nobody is hating im cool 😎, kool.
Go to Chiang Mai. There’s very little red light activity
or udon thani, 10 million city.
As someone who early retired on dividends this year my experience is the key is to get out of holiday mode. thankfully I'm now out of it. most days I eat müsli for breakfast and cook myself for dinner. I'm an introvert so some days I'm not even leaving the apartment. I stopped drinking alcohol and I'm not going to nightclubs. I like metal so the music there is trash for me and honestly most girls there are trash too. Met my gf in a café. We're going Dutch on dates, she makes her own money. I'm spending time on learning languages, I go to the gym, climbing, hiking, beach, meetups, boardgame club, meeting friends and more. I'm busy. If you're not busy and struggle to "kill" time you're doing something wrong and more likely to waste money.
The dopamine effect is powerful and you explained it very well. It applies to both sexes. Glad you warned men about how it works on you and your budget.
Don't stay only in Pattaya. You've travel around Thailand, because it's an amazing country and transportation is very cheap. I've travelled for 1. 1/2 year through Thailand
Exxcellence video! Very well put together and great advice. Thank you so much for this.
Sorry to hear you're ending this channel. I hope you will keep these Thai travel vids online. You did a nice job with these vids. 👍🏽
Great video, bro! Appreciate the advice from the perspective having lived there. Just came back from my first trip to Thailand and loved it enough to want to return more often.
Cheers!
Good for you! At the end of the day, we have to do what "we" feel is best for "our" life. Thank you for sharing with us, and I appreciate your videos.
Finally. A humble, honest and logical take on living there. Good take.
I have followed your channel a lot since it is a Thailand channel Ryan. Sad to see that you are giving up working on the channel and moving home. Good luck with your fitness business and whatever other ventures you decide on. You certainly nailed it with this channel in the short space of time you worked on it. I can totally understand why you didn't continue with the channel though, especially when you are a health conscious kind of person. Pattaya and the bar scene definitely doesn't mix with someone who wants to stay in shape. There are way too many temptations in Pattaya, especially in the bar scene with women and alcohol....plus all of the problems these can lead to.
Come and enjoy your time in Thailand when you feel enough with living in Thailand then design to move somewhere else you feel like to make your life satisfied , it ok to feeling boring some times in the same places, your life your choices you can manage where to go and don’t worry at all because Thai people always welcomes people around the world at any times . Thai people just wished you returned to Thailand again at any time ❤
Simple - don't live in Pattaya. There is so much more to Thailand than Pattaya, remove the temptations, live somewhere without them. You can always take a break and visit Pattaya when you feel the need.
Cant wait my 1st trip to thailand and the Philippines next month will be checking out what place i like better a month each to find out where im going to live for a few years not into the bar scene kinda a loner but if i meet someone great if i dont cool so excited watching all these channels
this guy didn't live in Thailand....he was in Pattaya.
My man just solved it all. Never been done before, congrats 🙌🥇
Which is thailand
I live in a busy town in Thailand and have been able to work in monk mode for 2.5 years. To stay motivated, you have to remember your goal, shut down distractions, and treat yourself once in a while.
Thanks for the link to your tutor, am going to do this for sure before I head over there next month. Great advice all around, start to finish.
Very true reflection, I like this country, but it's not cheap anymore.
Damn Ryan, You are tearing my heart, I just filled out my application for a Smart Startup Visa in Thailand, partly due to Your videos about Thailand - In Your early videos I really felt a sense of joy, energy and good vibes - something You missed in more recent ones, Your eyes just weren't that happy anymore. I guess You play it wrong by not trying more to find hobby clubs and similar-minded people who are not into the beer and bar scene. Somebody who You can travel with, have an evening jogging, talk about business etc. Anyway, I hope that, if You will visit Thailand again, I will still be there and we can go drink beer in a bar and judge people who cross by
Thats right man, need likminded people around who are eager to grow! All the best on your travels mate 🙏
@@TravelGlitchbut bro - it’s winter in the UK. I’ll give you another 14 days and you will be seriously missing it all? Maybe?
because he was in the wrong spot
I decided to stay here at same time as you. I’m staying because it’s right for me although I’m in Bangkok. Good you made the hard decision to return.
Completly agree with you re tipping. Hacks me off when I see people not tipping or giving the typical 10% tip to these guys when they've done a great job. In local eating places, even doubling the bill for a tip meansd it's cost me only 2 or 3 pounds (£). That's nothing to me as a westerner but means everything to the locals.
It also really hacks me off when I see westerners haggle the price with locals for the sake of a few baht. If the local is taking the piss then by all means but normally they just want to make a living.
Not everyone is rich like you bro, maybe he was just a guy who had worked in the supermarket checkout back home trying to have a better life there.
@@johnm.7621 it's not about being rich, even minimum wage in the UK goes a long way in Thailand and £10 is a lot of money for locals.
1st time I've seen you channel/output as a younger guy, well a lot younger than me being 65.
It's very easy in be sucked into a lazy lifestyle, once boots are on the ground if your here for any lenght of time.
I had thought about retirement here but I don't think I have the self discipline to live year round.
I'm more of a snowbird from the UK looking to spend the winter months here which I might then develop into a 3 months on 3 months off cycle, so 6 months of the year.
As for Pattaya, it had the best of both regarding nightlife partying etc also i'ts a great place to base yourself because of cost to explore all other places.
Depending on your budget lifestyle etc you can have an extremely cost effective time here, far cheaper than the UK currently.
Jom tien has more of the vibe I now want whilst I very, very occaisionly go the the main drag in Pattaya for a walkabout.
I love the craziness that Pattaya has to offer and i have no problem to "control" myself and keeping a healthy daily routine.
Having a decent Lady helps with that of course. I'm 39 and i live on average 5 months in Thailand and 7 months in Belgium each year. Would love to move full time but the money i make in Belgium is something i can never make in Thailand.
Make the money in the West , live frugal and you can have a good life and place in Thailand and Europe at the same time.
Are you ever in Pattaya in the off season? I'm doing my first multi-month visit starting June 1st. I'm hoping the off season provides an even cheaper stay and better opportunties................but as I finish this message I'm realizing you are probably there in the winter months lol.
@@ascendant95 i'm in Jomtien during July and August with my daughter. Its more quiet during the wet season. December till april is high season and very busy in Pattaya.
I do the exact same thing brother...I think it's a fine thing the way you're doing it now (thought I work for 1-2 years and then stay in Thailand for 1-2 years instead), once you get older you can choose to stay a place like that, or Vietnam, for longer.
Been here 28 years. Train and work all week. Stay away from hookers. Saved way more than I would have back in the UK. That said, I rarely drink. A lot easier here to get ahead financially than the UK.
What if someone just went throught a tough divorce and they need the freelancer experience for the first time in their life? lol Would it be better for someone like that during the off season starting in say........June?
they hate cheap guys@@ascendant95
@@ascendant95 Anytime is fine for that. There are 1000s of girls/women all-year-round.
@@gsomethingsomething2658 Thank you for responding. I'm really looking forward to my trip. It's gonna be really hot in June/July/August..................but I'm so excited.
Thanks for this honest review. This was very entertaining, almost hilarious, while being so informative.
The problem is the place you picked, I have been to Pattaya and the bars are definitely a big distraction and I visited them often, I’ve spent a month in Chiang Mai and didn’t go to any bar. If you want to put your head down and work, Pattaya isn’t the place for that.
Thanks for being so transparent. I’m sure your not the only one whose gone through it.
Self-control !!! I've lived in Thailand going on 11 months. People "burn their pockets" because they lack self-control and/or don't have income security or enough of it to spend more casually. I love Thailand. I've been all over the world with the US Army, now retired. It's the same anywhere you travel to. Sel-control. Live within your wage. Stay blessed everyone!
Very true! I never returned home due to money issues though, but highlighting the fact that spending above your means is possible in Thailand 👍
@@TravelGlitch Yeah, I mean, if you're coming to Thailand to travel, do you, party and burn through the money you want. Just make sure your return flight is paid and booked beforehand lol If you're coming to stay long or for good, do as the locals do or close enough and you'll be OK.
People are always comparing and debating......
comparing living in Bangkok versus Pattaya.....
comparing living in Thailand versus USA......
I say...... The solution is.....
55% of the time in USA 🇺🇸
45% of the time in Thailand 🇹🇭
And when in Thailand.....
50% of the time in Pattaya
50% of the time in Bangkok
......is the best of all worlds.
The issue about cheap price things add up, this the same thing as shopping habits. I love cheap fashion clothes so I buy a lot. If I spend 1000THB on 1 dress I might buy 1 a month. But as it costs only 250 I tend to buy 6, ending up spending more.
Yes - you'll often see vloggers breakfasting on a huge plateful of Western food, crowing how cheap it is at 250-300 baht. But multiply that x365 and it comes to 100,000 a year just for breakfast. That would get you the best health insurance going.
Consumerism in the UK primed you for this. If you had gone to a .monastery for just a few weeks, you could have learnt how truly cheap Asia can be
True, I gof in Thailand about 6 times on a 3 week vacation, which costs about $100 USD per round. At home I might golf once a month at a cost of $20 on a Muni course. Also I never go to bars here in the US, but in Thailand it’s a nightly thing.
A very thoughtful, useful video. Nice one.
Thailand IS cheap.... u went to Pattaya lol - try Chiang Rai
That’s good information and a very compelling point. A person on a retirement budget needs to keep with the budget. I think that the fact that very nice accommodations and good food can be had for at least 30% of the cost in the west makes Thailand and other southeast Asian countries very hospitable for persons on a fixed income.
It is you can live good for 300 thai baht per day if you know were to eat it’s the bars and girls and obviously if you live somewhere you are not on holiday mode but £1000 per month is easy to live on and Thailand is a big place not just Pattaya chaing Mia your young and you sow your oats have self control
I lived there for 10 years. I dearly, dearly miss it... but salaries are just so much better in other parts of Asia. I'm still in Asia, but Thailand is no longer where I live.
I'm going to visit for the first time this summer starting June 1st until maybe Octoberish. I'm planning on spending most of my time in Thailand with quick trips to Cambodia and Vietnam. Do you think its a good move to go in the off season if I'm cheap and want the best opportunites with freelancers? lol Sorry it is what it is. If you knew what the last 2 years were like for me in the woman department you would have mercy and pity on me. :)
@@ascendant95 Uhm... I can give you advice on that, but Your mileage is definitely going to vary. Off season is hit-or-miss in that department, and "being cheap" is a very relative thing. Also "Freelancers" are not a good bet in any case, (Depending on what you mean by 'freelancers.')
My best advice is to go with an open mind, a willingness to spend some money, but a hard budget that you know you won't go over. Realize that you're going to get price gouged, but smile and enjoy the experience for what it is. Be polite and friendly, and have a good sense of humor, and you'll have a good time. Go over there looking to complain about stuff, and you'll have a bad time. You get out of Thailand what you put into it.
The people are sweet, friendly, and generally good natured... but be realistic... they want you to spend your money. That's what they're there for. Don't expect more than that, and go with the flow, man.
Great video! I think you would have done much better in Chiangmai as a digital nomad/entrepreneur. Pattaya is exactly the opposite of what I would consider a digital nomad hub. All the best with your journey!
This video is spot and to lots of it I can relate too. Speaking of the dopamine rush. I actually have a note in my phone just to remind me… I understand this channels has run its course though I’m gonna miss your videos. I liked your take on things. Very interested though in your take on how to grow fast on UA-cam. Definitely hope you’ll make that videos. Cheers and good luck
You know that dopamine rush is real when you get in the taxi to head home and crash 😅😫😫
Massage is $8 USD, of course you can have one every day. You can have 3 a day.
Are freelancers cheaper in the off season in June and July? That's when I'll be in Pattaya for the first time and I'm hoping so............
I LOVE UR HONESTY THANK YOU SO MUCH
🙏
Your like a tiny version of Tyson Fury. 😂
Awesome video very well thought out. Traveling there very soon
£5 for a pint? Have you been living in Thailand for 6 months or 6 years?
Thank you for this honest summary of your experience in Pattaya, most of your content was very helpful for me right from the beginning. Good luck back in the UK.
I'm a 100% Total and permanent US military disabled 19.3 years time in service. What is it like with league play over there? Darts, pool, bowling, pickle ball/racket ball and etc.? Hiking camping groups? If you still have physical capabilities and can do similar activities to include staying extra fit and chiseled at the gym, you should be able to keep yourself gainfully employed to avoid boredome and seeking booze and other bad decisions, no?
As someone who smokes weed and plays world of Warcraft for 11-12 hours a day in the west I have none of these issues and will live a nice life in Thailand 😂
Pattaya is made for me. I'm impervious to all the pitfalls you mentioned.
So then why are you in Pattaya? I’m very curious
Saying mai ouw kraup to taxi drivers in my experience has almost always gotten a thank you in return.
I also use the Set laew joke as well 😂 brilliant way to create humour from a no. Only just discovered you. And you're quitting 😂
I was in Thailand end of 2022 to early 2023 after not coming for a decade. I've spent 3 months living in central Pattaya.
I never set any foot in a bar not even Walking Street.
Netflix at night was my prefered distraction.
You do know that Netflix is available in Europe you don’t need to go to Thailand to watch Netflix in a tiny room !!!
@@lifeasithappens
Who said I went to watch Netflix?
And who said I was in a tiny room?
Are freelancers cheaper in the off season? Knowing the answer to that does not imply that you've used their services it should be common knowledge for someone who lived there lol. :)
So why were you in Pattaya?
I totally agree all these self righteous people I go to Pattaya I don’t drink I don’t go out I don’t pick up girls I don’t eat I don’t fart I don’t swim then why the FuK are you in Thailand?????
You bring up some really good points my man. I'm just back from 3 months in Pattaya, partying almost every night. It does catch up with you eventually and I was starting to feel really burnt out in the last few weeks. Despite that though, I'm planning to move out there soon and you've voiced a lot of things that I already know but didn't think about out loud. Good stuff man. I'm still pulling the trigger though, wish me luck 😝
Good luck on your return! Bet you had a great 3 months though, enjoy the memories ;)
@@TravelGlitch Cheers bro, all the best to you too!
For me to live in another county would be to live a better life. What's the point of moving and having to budget in order to survive will not be what i would personally want. If you can't go out or eat out often or travel frequently, then it's not for me. Thailand used to be cheap in 20+ years ago, but last year i found it awfully expensive. ( for me as we like to do a lot and eat good food) E.g Taxi from Kamala to pattaya was approx 500 TB
each journey.
I wouldn't be able to live off £1,000/£2,000 a month i would need a house with a pool for starters 😂 not boxed up in a small high rise. Thanks for being true and pointing out that not everything is as perfect as some others say.
what I do is this: work for a year or two...then I take an entire "break" (though not really, usually climb mountains or alike) and then I'm going to a year in Thailand, Vietnam or alike...I "retire" early for a year for then to work hard for 1-2 years again and still have plenty of money left...this is a model I find much better and gives one more value where you get the best of both worlds. I'm not going to wait until I'm 70+ to retire: I might be dead by then, I can probably not move as much as all, my "wife" might have broken up with me and taken half of my wealth; why not just take the freedom for yourself right now?
After watching this blog I think you have done Pattaya a big favour Thailand should be paying you for this content
Great advice, you certainly add a different perspective.
I stayed in Pattaya in the late 90's but I was addicted to golf , not the other stuff . I played 6 days a week apart from sunday because I watched football saturday night . I had a separate stint in 2004 when I bought my girlfriend an annex to her parent's house for £3,500 in Thabo , Nong Khai , and stayed there very happily for a few months before coming back home for work and unfortunately had an accident while home and never made it back. Still saddens me. I will go back in a few year's time when I retire but that ship has sailed and I will probably go to live south of Hua Hin somewhere on the beach . Still a nice though .
Thailand is paradise not a RED ZONE Iin Pattaya. Nice country.friendly people and tasty food,
To be honest when I worked in the building trade in the UK it became habit for all us builders to meet up every evening in the pub, I couldn't imagine not going to the pub, some quietened down in their 30s some didn't, it doesn't matter where you are, it becomes habitual, I can see your point that it's on hand but it's the same in the UK , just costs more
Very good content, shame you are leaving. Hopefully you will be back, but go to Phuket next time.
You should be self sufficient before moving there. The key is to have an income stream. That might be taking 4% from a portfolio a year, a pension or both. I would think for $3K/mo you could basically do whatever you want to and live quite well in Pattaya. $500/mo for rent and utilities, would leave you around $2,500 mo. If you take out phone, food, transportation and health insurance for another $500, that would leave roughly $2K for entertainment and drinking. If you can’t get by on that, you have issues.
It's too bad you quit UA-cam. You put out good content, are good in front of the camera, and are down to earth. So much better than that Jasper in Philippines chap that always talks down to you.
I think the biggest problem is people go on holiday to places like Sin City, have a great time, and in some cases, it's the best holiday they've ever had. They move out there, holiday for 2 or 3 months & then bang, the novelty has worn off. Pattaya is not for Me, never has been, too full on, but then again somewhere like Hua Hin is also not for Me, it's like you're living in holiday mode year-round. My Thai wife & I are setting up home in rural Cha Am, about 10-15 minutes from the beach, amongst real-life Thais, so My retirement will be not a lot different than if we were here in the London suburbs, just with better weather & food. Thailand is a very addictive place, especially if you are single & a drinker, it's very very easy to get caught up in the expat drinking culture, which if ya not careful will end up killing you. I know guys that have been going out to Thailand for 20+ years, all they know about is Pattaya & have a totally distorted view of what living in Thailand is all about, as Pattaya is all they know. Good luck to you & your future, I hope you find what you are looking for.
Thank you very much for sharing your experiences and your thoughts. 👍
Lots of people are chasing the dopamine rush. Sex, drugs, Rock'n'Roll and food give you a lot of dopamine.
You are quite young, and made the best desicion for you.
I'm old and will retire in two years, and so I'm thinking about moving to Pattaya. Vids like yours help me to be aware of the traps and dangers. Well done mate. Cheers.
Good luck on your retirement in 2 years 🙌
Write a budget on a piece of paper and try to stick to it.
If u can work a little bit online, do it. It can help buffer the budget.
Ignore the ladies, have a few cheap drinks and go home.
I must admit , Pattaya was too much for me , I am glad that you are honest about prices because people think they can live on nothing
Thailand is NOT just Pattaya.
Thank you for the video. 3 months travelling around SE Asia seems a better idea. Already done it for 2 months and enjoyed it. Stuck in the same place, doing nothing productive, even if it is making videos will become quite lonely/dull after a well. I've seen to many miserable old men in Thailand to realize this is the case.
I don't drink. I don't smoke, and when it comes to traveling, your milage may depend on your lifestyle
"Sometimes you need boring environment if you want to focus hard" - Travel Clitch 💯👍