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How should I decide between moving to Thailand or staying in the Philippines considering the cost and my retirement plans?

Retirement in Thailand Visa Options Cost of Living in Thailand Philippines vs Thailand Currency Exchange Expat Life Travel Plans Moving Abroad

Jun 8, 2025

21 days ago

Kenneth *******************

ORIGINAL POSTER

I have to step outside of my zone of comfort. Only because this is a little outside of my comfort zone. If there is anybody that's able to advise me with what's more feasible. Please reach out to me on messenger. I have less than 60 days to stay the course with my original plan. Or do I have to alternate between the two. 

Here's the issue. I am all set for my retirement/move to Thailand late August, early September. The only thing I have left is to apply for my retirement. I recently rearranged my first class flight from Thailand to the Philippines. From the Philippines then to Thailand. Saving me a couple thousand dollars. Now here is my issue and why I need help. The cost of the currency exchange and how hard of a is it going to hit me. My goal is Thailand. I should consider staying in the Philippines because of the what is happening with the US dollar. I am struggling with this decision. Apologize for the lengthy post. Hopefully there is somebody with some sound advice. Thanks

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The poster is contemplating a retirement move to Thailand, but is uncertain whether to proceed or consider staying in the Philippines due to financial concerns related to currency exchange rates. They are already set to travel from Thailand to the Philippines and back but are feeling the pressure of their upcoming plans. The community response is varied, with many offering opinions on the pros and cons of living in either country, reiterating that the choice ultimately rests on personal preference and financial capability.

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Joe **********

19 days ago

Benjamin *********

Flip a coin, Thailand tails, Philippines heads - you'll either have the decision made for you or find out that you're unhappy with the result, thus revealing your actual preference.

20 days ago

Peter **********

@Benjamin ********

It’s really a very personal thing. Places like Bangkok, Phuket or Pattaya would be my least desirable places to live in Thailand while others are so much at home there they wouldn’t want to leave it for the world.

One man’s like is another man’s dislike. A matter of personal preferences.

19 days ago

Benjamin *********

@Peter *********

of course, I agree completely.

19 days ago

Reply to

Benjamin *********

X *************

Actually the Philippines is nice if you choose the right place. Manila certainly can be rough around the edges but there are lots of nice safe cities to choose from besides Manila. Thailand is certainly ahead development wise but it's certainly way over crowded with tourists. My simple answer is Thailand is overrated and places like the Philippines are underrated. Cebu, Boho, Bardigio, Dumagehetty, etc are all great places

20 days ago

Betty *********

That was very confusing. Why did you book a flight to Philippines if you were going to Thailand? Where do you live ?

Currency exchange will not cc ost a fortune. Explain simpler please .

20 days ago

Steve **********

After six large Singha's I am beginning to understand..Two more should do it. 🍺

20 days ago

Jonathan *************

incoherent

20 days ago

Peter **********

Just eat the temporary currency drop. The dollar will go up again in the future (after blondie) so you’ll have to sit out three or four years.

I bought some usd just before he started the trade wars. Too bad for me. I’ll keep them until he’s gone and Americans get back to their senses (if ever).

I self-insure so I need to keep some cash here and there anyway to cover possible (health) calamities.

20 days ago

Kenneth *******************

ORIGINAL POSTER

Thank you for the information and your advice

20 days ago

Kenneth *******************

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Peter *********

thanks so much. I appreciate your comment

20 days ago

Peter **********

PS Converting today is obviously not the preferred choice.

But Bangkok Bank offers foreign currency accounts which are instantly accessible (during office hours). Check with immigration whether they accept a USD balance (in Thailand!) for seasoning. Then you don’t need to convert right away.

20 days ago

Reply to

Peter **********

Dennis *********

No idea what the issue is exactly.

20 days ago

Stuart ***********

Have you visited both countries? IMO Thailand is the best choice. The only real advantage the Philippines has is that the people speak English as their second language. Everything else in Thailand is so much better and safer. The healthcare, infrastructure, food and culture are all great in Thailand. There's also very little crime compared to Philippines. Accommodation is expensive in the Philippines, but most other things are probably a little bit cheaper. I personally didn't feel safe in the Philippines, I feel completely safe here in Thailand. The choice is yours.

20 days ago

Belinda ********

Huh🤫 are you asking a question or just mentioning first class? Seriously difficult to help you

20 days ago

Bob **********

Fly economy