Contemplating a move to Thailand because of all the stories it is cheaper?
Well, sorry, it isn’t.
People often get confused when they continually hear Thailand is so cheap.
Newsflash! It is only cheap if you can live like a working class Thai person.
That is correct. Thailand is only cheap if you can live like a Thai.
Anything associated with western goods and quality is going to be more expensive here than in the west.
Cars are more expensive.
Mobile phones are more expensive.
Electronics are more expensive.
Brand names are more expensive.
Resorts and attractions are more expensive.
A night out is more expensive.
So, why all the stories about how cheap it is to live in Thailand?
For westerners looking to move and retire in Thailand because it is cheap, they are in for a huge disappointment.
If you try to replicate your western lifestyle and daily habits in Thailand it will cost you even more!
Do you eat at Western Sizzler back home? It will cost you more.
McDonalds will cost you more.
Starbucks will cost you more.
Western groceries will cost you more.
Housing, sq m to sq m will cost you more. Maybe depending on the area, downtown Bangkok or the beaches will cost much more.
The real fact is Thailand is only cheaper if you can live like a working class Thai.
Can you live in a very small flat with no amentities?
Can you take a bus everywhere?
Can you eat Thai food that is cooked on the street, out in the traffic and air pollution?
Can you forgo any western comforts simply because you have to save money?
Let’s not even delve into medical insurance for seniors.
Most countries have their own plans like Medicare for seniors.
In Thailand it is going to cost you upwards of US $500 a month and filing claims will be a real crapshoot.
If you really want to live or retire in Thailand and have your normal western lifestyle do your homework first!
It is not cheap like all the stories you read about unless you want to spend your golden years living like a Thai.