@True *****

Again it's all about perspective. Not everyone needs what you think they should. Thai people live happy lives on less than that, and some farangs want nothing more than to "live like a Thai". Your reasoning is very subjective.

@True *****

And that's how some people choose to live. And freedom of choice is a wonderful thing.

@Trav *********

Yep! Better off to invest in blackout curtains! They all look the same in the dark!

@Bill ********

I'm with you on that one! I always laugh when retirees head off to Isaan to see out their Golden Years. For me, it's the city, and the closer to great restaurants, expat pubs, live rock music (western, not Thai), and expat communities I am, the happier I am!

@Betty ********

Smart way to work out your own budget. You can pull figures out of the air all day long, but nothing beats historical data. Keeping a monthly record of expenditure over a year certainly shows where adjustments can be made (either plus or minus).

@Eric ******

Thailand is notorious for introducing visas without much thought, believing it's the answer to their economic woes! I have LTR with a passive income (mostly commercial rental properties) of around $150k per month. Do you honestly think I'm going to be bringing that money into Thailand? No chance. That money gets pumped into other investments overseas. I bring in 100k baht per month, which is more than enough for me. Of course I'm still going to live a decent lifestyle. You won't see me at the street stall queuing up for a 50 baht Krapow, and you'll never see me having an orgasm over a toasted sandwich from 7-11 (and yep, there's plenty that do!). I actually believe most expats could probably get a *reasonable* lifestyle on 65-70k per month

@True *****

He lives in Bangkok. Doesn't need most of the things you've listed. You have an expensive lifestyle, he cuts corners. It's like I've said elsewhere - you can choose your own budget, especially in Bangkok.

@Darren ******

My lady is a PA to a director of a large company. She's on a very good salary. In the eight years we've been together, she's obtained visas for UK, Schengen, Australia and USA without the blink of an eyelid, such is the respect for her position. We generally split everything 50-50, although as I live in her condo (which she owns outright) rent free, I now pay for her overseas airfares. She's happy with the arrangement

@Brad *********

It's potentially as cheap or expensive as you want it to be. Go to the street food markets and you'll get your meals for 50-60-70 baht and your 60 baht Chang if that's what you want. Some people want to "live" their retirement, not just exist. You can get half-decent condo for 10,000 baht (or less if you're not so picky). It's the choice of the individual how they want to live

@J *************

It's the Thai government which call it "wealthy". You only have to show $6600 passive income per month. Tell Musk or Bezos that $6600 is the wealthy category!