Lots of foreigners retire in Thailand due to the low cost, nice weather and things to see and do.
Many of these foreigners will choose a condominium as their retirement home in a lively place like Bangkok, Pattaya or Phuket.
The sea, lots of restaurant choices, shopping, you name it.
A condo seems to suit the needs of many retirees.
Retirement for me looks completely different.
I would like some land with a superb view.
Phetchabun would fit the bill for those requirements just fine.
Activities would include the local mom & pop food stalls, local attractions and steering clear of any crowds, traffic, pollution, etc.
I would not like to live in the hustle and bustle of Bangkok (due to traffic and air pollution), Pattaya or Phuket (overrun with Russian and Indian tourists).
Not sure how people can enjoy Maya Bay when there is 1,000+ tourists present but no thank you.
Retired in Thailand means that you have a choice to visit those places outside of the high season, when they are less crowded and much less expensive.
Visiting is great when you need a break, however, for a retirement home, a nice house, pool, land, view, your own oasis will always be my choice.