ILA Magazine: Discover the Best Retirement Haven + 14 More
For years, its warm climate, relatively inexpensive cost of living and laidback lifestyle have attracted tourists and expats from around the world for both short-term and long-term stays.
Some of the world’s most beautiful beaches are located in the south of the country. From the bustling seaside resorts of Koh Samui and Hua Hin, to the more tranquil islands of Phi Phi and Lanta, there is something for everyone who dreams of retirement in the tropics. Some expats prefer to live in the smaller villages that dot the coastlines on both sides of the country, where accommodation costs are much less expensive and life is slower paced. It is still possible to find furnished townhouse and apartment rentals within five minutes of the beach for less than $670 per month.
Bangkok is the centre of the country, both geographically and financially. From a small trading post in the 15th century to a metropolitan area with a population of over 14 million, this massive city dwarfs Thailand’s other urban centres. Some foreign retirees have chosen to live in this populous capital and enjoy the hubbub atmosphere of the city. The colourful markets, modern shopping centres, numerous entertainment venues and efficient transport system are just a few of its inherent benefits.
Other expats prefer the serenity and inexpensive lifestyle of Chiang Mai in the northern part of the country. The “old city”, now the centre of a sprawling metropolis, is surrounded by a deep moat and remnants of a wall that once offered protection against the armies of the Mongol Empire. This Lanna cultural centre of Thailand boasts over 300 colourful Buddhist temples, and several universities and technical colleges. Chiang Mai appeals to many expats because it has managed to retain its local traditions and culture while providing all the modern amenities that are sought after by its newest residents.
Although lacking in beaches, the northern part of Thailand is dotted with several large national parks. Here you will find Doi Inthanon National Park, where the highest mountain peak in the country is located. Those who enjoy the outdoors flock to this area of the country to partake in mountain biking, hiking, camping and touring the local mountain roads to visit the many interesting hillside tribe villages.
As with most other Southeast Asian countries, Thailand is alive with festivals throughout the year. During the Loi Krathong festival, thousands of people throughout the country assemble floating banana-leaf containers decorated with incense sticks, flowers and a candle, and float them on local waterways. This coincides with the Yi Peng festival in northern Thailand where thousands of glowing rice paper lanterns are released into the sky to produce a spectacular sight. The annual Chiang Mai flower festival showcases the flora and fauna of the region. The highlight of this celebration is the flower festival parade that draws thousands of tourists each year to the city.
Thailand is a great place to live—full- or part-time. After spending time in the country, many expats are told by their friends that they look 10 years younger. With the wonderful weather, great food, inexpensive healthcare and friendly local residents, it is not difficult to understand why many choose to call Thailand their second home.
Udon Thani is the largest city in the Isan region in Thailand’s northeast and lies just 50 kilometres from the Thai/Laos border. The city offers everything an expat could want. Shopping, healthcare, great recreational facilities including parks with tennis courts, outdoor gyms, walking, cycling and jogging tracks. Udon Thani boasts four 9-hole golf courses where a round will cost less than $10—including a caddie...
So, where is Thailand? It’s situated in a central position in the Southeast Asia continent. Laos sits to the northeast, Myanmar (Burma) to the north and west, Cambodia is situated to the southeast and the far south is where the Gulf of Thailand meets Malaysia and the Malay Peninsula. The Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean are found off the western shores of mainland Thailand, while the Gulf of Thailand...
One of the things I miss most about Melbourne is the coffee. The city is famous for its cafe scene; latte drinking is practically a Saturday morning sport. So when my fiancé and I made the decision to move to Chiang Mai, Thailand, earlier this year, we knew we’d have to lower our expectations when it came to all things caffeinated. Thankfully, Chiang Mai’s eclectic mix of coffee shops means we haven’t...
“We love sailing,” says Elizabeth Coleman, “The freedom it gives us, the cultures we experience, the people we meet and the fun we have along the way.” Since setting sail back in 2006, Elizabeth and Steve have covered some 60,000 nautical miles...
My modern townhouse has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It’s cute. It makes me happy. Sometimes I head outside to do a bit of gardening. Just tending to my vertical garden or tidying up the hedges. I never had time for gardening before I retired to Chiang Mai, Thailand’s Rose of the North...
A passion fruit and mango smoothie was always a favourite for breakfast when I was holidaying in Chiang Mai. It was called a “Smoothie Blue” and it was sweet and cool in the gorgeous tropical weather. My teenage son would order a stack of pancakes, my husband would enjoy bacon and eggs and I would go for a seasonal fruit muesli with Greek yogurt.
Thailand is known as “the Land of Smiles”. It is a fascinating country and one that makes us smile every time we visit. Some hate it, some just don’t get it and others, like us, just love it. It is a city that’s on our digital nomad roving retiree route. It is not just a stopover for us on our way to Europe. It’s like a home away from home...
When one of my closest friends announced she was coming to visit me in Chiang Mai, I was thrilled. She was excited too, of course, but also nervous. You see, Hayley has a fructose intolerance, which means garlic, onion and honey, as well as certain fruits and vegetables, are strictly off-limits...
Even though it was two-and-a-half years ago, the moment is still vivid in my mind. My friend Tony accosted me at the local shopping centre. He had heard my family and I were selling our house and moving overseas. His eyes were piercing and earnest and carried a sense of urgency. His fingers were digging into my forearm in an attempt to really make his point. “Don’t do it Rachel! Just don’t do it!”...
Recently Vivien and I took a two-week road trip through northeast (Isaan) and central Thailand. We love a road trip and this one was all new territory for us. We quickly became aware that not many international tourists or expats, like us, venture to these regions of Thailand. A shame, as this trip opened our eyes to so many new discoveries...