Yes exactly this Sandi, but aren't you doing this tho by saying anyone with money is privileged without knowing their past experiences and sacrifices to get there? 🤔
Yeah BKK is annoying for this. Had this problem trying to get Residence Certificate for buying new bike. Instead I came to Pattaya where it is super easy and can get on shorter term visa. I think in Chiang Mai as well you don't need long term visa.
I would argue that having to deal with an extension every year is a disadvantage. You have to by physically in Thailand during a particular window every year or your visa will lapse. Also, you have to pay for that extension. Where as pay once and don't worry about it for several years. I travel a lot so leaving every six months is no problem. However, someone not leaving the country often, then I guess you are right and the retirement visa is advantageous as you can just stay in country indefinitely.