Thailand is one of the world’s premier vacation destinations, thanks to its stunning beaches, warm welcome, and so much more. And while millions pour in every year for a week or two, others prefer to stay long-term. As such, the country has a large expatriate community, many of whom are retirees who have chosen to spend their retirement under the sun.
It should come as no surprise that Thailand attracts so many retirees as the country has so much to offer. We’ve created this brief article bringing you 5 of the best reasons why Thailand is one of the best places to retire.
1. The Warm Welcome
Thailand is widely known as the land of smiles, and for a very good reason. Visitors are typically greeted with smiles wherever they go in the country, helping to make visitors feel welcome. You will also find that many Thais speak at least passable English, while road signs and other signage are also often written in English.
Visitors can also apply for a retirement visa for Thailand, which will help to make their stay relatively straightforward. Of course, you will need to apply for the visa and meet certain criteria to qualify, but many people will have no difficulty meeting these requirements. The team at Thai Visa Expert will be more than happy to lend our knowledge and experience so the process goes smoothly and quickly for you.
Regardless of visa requirements, most visitors will find Thailand is a warm and welcoming place to call home. Depending on where you are in the country, you will also find plenty of Western food options, including a huge selection of restaurants selling your favourite dishes from home.
2. The Climate
Another reason for Thailand’s popularity is the climate. During the peak season, you can expect blistering temperatures under a scorching sun, which is a dream come true for countless people who come from cooler climes. The heat can become too much for some people, but modern buildings have air-conditioning and fans that will help to keep you cool.
If you’re still struggling with the heat, you can cool down in the sea if you’re at a beach location. Alternatively, you will find no shortage of pools in cities, including in some apartment buildings and even on the roofs of some shopping centres.
Thailand does become cooler during the off-season, although the temperatures still remain warm when compared to other countries. Most westerners will rarely feel cold in Thailand, depending on where you are, although a long sleeve shirt or jumper will sometimes be welcome. However, the weather can sometimes become chilly in the North of the country during the winter.
Overall, Thailand’s climate help to make the country an excellent destination for visitors, including retirees.
3. Modern Facilities
Thailand is considered a newly industrialized country (NIC). This means that while it may not have the wealth and infrastructure that many other countries do, it still has plenty to offer. This is especially the case in large cities like Bangkok and tourist centres like Pattaya, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.
If medical facilities are important to you, then Thailand is one of the best options available. Indeed, Thailand is widely considered to be a regional, even international, hub for medical facilities and treatment. Millions of people visit the country every year for state-of-the-art medical facilities and highly trained doctors at relatively affordable prices. Retirees will also find affordable, comprehensive medical coverage in Thailand.
Thailand also offers high-speed internet, with electricity and water in every home in urban areas. You will also be spoilt for choice when it comes to shopping. The shopping options in Thailand range from sprawling markets selling unique items to modern malls selling whatever you need from around the globe.
Lots to See
When thinking of Thailand, many people’s first thoughts go to the beaches and the temples. But Thailand also has so much more to offer to people from all walks of life. As mentioned, Thailand is a dream come true for many shoppers, and long-term visitors will get to experience shopping opportunities that short-term stays won’t have time for.
Thailand also has an ancient culture that you are often reminded of when in the country. There are plenty of opportunities to get a glimpse of this culture thanks to temples, museums, and ruins depicting life when the Siam empire was at its peak and beyond. Such sights also usually have plenty of facilities that will help keep visitors comfortable during their stay.
Retirees in Thailand will also have no difficulty meeting up with other, like-minded individuals thanks to the large expat community. In no time at all you will likely meet new friends to enjoy the rest of your adventure with.
Modern Transportation Network
Thailand has a modern transportation network that helps make it easier to see more of the country. Motorways link up destinations with the rest of the country and even further afield, while taxis and buses are also usually modern and comfortable.
While the train system leaves a lot to be desired at first glance, comfortable carriages are available even if the journey is slower than you’re used to. Thailand is also well known for its sleeping carriages that are ideal for those long journeys.
In Bangkok, you also have access to the underground and sky train rail services that help make the city easy to access. As such, you can find affordable accommodation on the city outskirts while still having easy access to the city centre and other important amenities.
Summary
Above are just 5 reasons why Thailand is an excellent retirement destination, and there are many more. Overall, the country is affordable to most people while still offering all the modern facilities and utilities you could need. The country is also favoured for its climate, and there is no shortage of sights to see.
Although Thailand is mostly an easy and enjoyable place to live, the red tape can become a little overwhelming for some people. Speak with the team at Thai Visa Expert, and we will be delighted to help in any way we can.
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