Thailand has been voted one of the World’s top five retirement destinations and for a long while now when we think retirement either Spain, France or Florida comes to mind.  Now add Thailand to the list and there are some strong positives to choose Thailand over the more fatigued destinations, especially if you don’t like cold winters.

SAFETY
Safety is a prime consideration for seniors and Thailand is one of the safest countries in the world with violent crime against strangers extremely low. Furthermore Thailand is a familial society where elders are respected.

PRICES
The cost of standard of living in Thailand is very low.  Services are very reasonable too and retirement property, away from the large busy tourist areas are so reasonably priced that most pensioners can easily afford them.

MEDICAL AMENITIES
Facilities are modern and inexpensive. There are very good international hospitals and excellent medical schools in Thailand. Many of the medical doctors are western trained. Additionally nurses are university graduated and their skills challenge those in the west. Generic prescription drugs are very reasonable too.

WEATHER
The weather is fantastic and the climate ranges from tropical in the south to sub-tropical in the north.  In fact, even during the rainy season the weather is pleasant where you seldom find it raining all day.  A warm weather person will love Thailand.

ACTIVITIES
There are many activities available to the active senior ranging from golf, on one of the many excellent golf courses, to bowls, tennis and for the more adventurous there is scuba diving.  There are even opportunities for nature trips as well as cultural activities.  Or simply just lay back and enjoy the calming, relaxing, serenity of Thailand’s leisurely lifestyle.

VISAS
Retirement visas are relatively easy to obtain once you are 50 years of age , or over.  You may apply for a non-immigrant visa for a period of one year in Thailand which can be renewed each year.