Thailand listed one of World’s retirement havens

The latest Annual Global Retirement Index of the magazine, released on 1 January 2015, listed Thailand at number 10 among the 25 countries.

 Other countries in the top ten are Ecuador, Panama, Mexico, Malaysia, Costa Rica, Spain, Malta, Colombia, and Portugal. The report combined several real-world insights about buying and renting, benefits and discounts, cost of living, fitting in, entertainment and amenities, health care, infrastructure, and climate of each of the 25 countries.

 It said that as Asia’s appeal to North American expatriates continues to grow, Thailand has become a popular destination. “The country combines the best of authentic Asian cuisine and culture with enough North American influences to help you feel at home.”

 “Thriving expat communities already exist in the larger cities, such as Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and resort areas, such as Phuket and Hua Hin. The Thai people are also well-known for their welcoming and accepting nature, their hospitality readily extended to expats.”

According to the report, the choice of restaurants and dining spots is vast in Thailand, and “there’s much else besides to immerse yourself in. Choices for concerts, gigs, and exhibitions abound in Bangkok, and Chiang Mai has a huge art scene.”

 The report pointed out that culture isn’t the only draw. The country is an outdoor-lover’s paradise, with a rich mosaic of rainforests, exotic wildlife, and breathtaking temples. On islands such as Koh Samui, Thailand also boasts some of the most beautiful tropical beaches visitors will find anywhere in the world, with properties available at highly affordable prices. But then, affordable homes and a relatively low cost of living can be found right across Thailand. Even in the likes of Chiang Mai, a couple can live comfortably on a modest budget of US$1,500 a month.

Excellent health care is available throughout the country, but the best care to be had is in the city centers, especially in Bangkok. Basic doctor’s visits and dental procedures (such as cleanings and fillings) can cost as little as 30 dollars, while a basic health insurance plan starts at around 300 dollars.

 The Tourism Authority of Thailand cited Thailand as a welcoming country for people to retire to on a long-term basis, and the retirement visa does not stipulate an annual minimum stay. In addition, retirees are eligible for visas at the relatively young age of 50, and there are no additional financial requirements for their dependents.

Retirement visas are issued when applicants offer proof of income, which currently stands at around 65,000 baht, or about 2,100 dollars a month.