@Charles *******

I’m not sure if you can do this from WhatsApp, but from Skype, you can pay for a service called “Skype out” where you can call any phone number in the world from your Skype account. The recipient doesn’t have to have Skype. Certainly, use the SIM’s data for these calls. There’s absolutely no reason to use a direct network call nowadays.

@JP *******

People mean the “Bangkok Bank”. It’s the name of the bank. They’re not referring specifically to the city of Bangkok.

@Brad ******

can you recommend a good condo/apartment rental site? I’ve found a lot of agents are not interested in responding (perhaps due to price range or lease commencement date I’m looking at… but not sure… So if there’s a “go to” English language site, I’d appreciate the info!)

Vietnam has been less heavily touristed in recent decades, so people are arguably friendlier than Thailand which feels more commercial and is definitely overrun with tourists. Unfortunately, Vietnam is catching up in that regard.

@Mark *********

The infrastructure doesn’t seem great there… (I swore I’d never transit through that airport again after my second attempt). But this may improve in time, so may be a good option for a younger person. It’s a beautiful country.

Thailand is definitely easier to get around (well, Bangkok anyway) and (e.g., medical) infrastructure is much better. For a younger person that may be less important. However, there are no long-term visas for Vietnam. You’ll need to leave every 3 months to do a border run. Thailand, on the other hand, does have long-term options but they’re more for retirees with a bit of money to spare. For now, Thailand is a secure base from which to explore but, Vietnam is cheaper. You just have to put up with long lines at the airport and minimal public transport, though I believe they’re working on that! As others have suggested, perhaps initially rotating between countries would be a good way to get a feel for what works for you.