If you are thinking of leaving to enjoy your retirement in peace, Thailand is the country that is highly recommended to you. For a successful move, good preparation is essential. If you don't take the time to prepare in detail, your dream could easily turn into a nightmare.
The cost of living in Thailand is 4 times cheaper than in France. But although the cost of living remains accessible, money can disappear at the speed of light without good management. For the first few months, it is important that you adopt a fairly modest lifestyle. If you want to settle in the southern islands, be aware that the cost of living in this region is dangerously close to that of the European continent. At the very beginning, the ideal is that you find cheap accommodation in a fairly popular area.
The first step is to go to the nearest embassy and apply for a visa there depending on your situation. Once you get your visa, the rest won't matter. To obtain a retired visa, he makes you respect a few criteria. The candidate for expatriation must be over 50 years old and hold a retired visa. In addition, he must promise to invest in this country, in other words set up a company. Regardless of the nationality of the future resident, he must also apply for a residence certificate. If you are French, it will be essential that you take out repatriation insurance. Of course, an offer of this type accompanies the plane ticket, but it is only valid for 3 months. Once you have decided to settle there permanently, it would be wise to take out insurance for expatriates, this will save you from spending a lot of money in the event of health problems.
Thai culture is totally different from yours. Since you are not at home, it will be necessary for you to adapt to their way of life. It is very important that you respect their traditions, before embarking on an adventure, do some research so that you do not seem too out of step once there. You will also need to learn the local language. If you are able to communicate with the natives, you will be accepted more quickly. When people down there see that you're interested in them, they'll be nicer to you. You should also take the time to know their law, it is of utmost importance. If you violate any regulations, fines could be expensive.
Thai food is tasty, but unfortunately it is not always to European taste. There are hundreds of dishes, you just have to find the right balance and adapt to your rhythm. You can also opt for small tastings from time to time to familiarize yourself with Thai gastronomy.
