@Jeff ********

that's just taking the p!ss..

@Nadia ********

I've done it for several years here, it's hard work 😂 check out the requirements for a retirement visa. Basically, you need to keep 800,000 baht in a Thai account for most of the year. *you can dip down to 400,000 baht for some of the year. You CAN keep that money in Euros/pounds/dollars in an international account with one if the Thai banks OR you can show the required monthly income (which is a but of a pain) going into a Thai account for a year. As for your younger spouse - unsure if he could attach himself to your visa (as a spouse) for a retirement visa - this would be my question in your situation. And, details of visa requirements are readily available - you don't need an agent - just a LOT of patience and someone who can speak Thai. Some DO use an agent in-country when they are already here and 'work around' having the required capital for a retirement visa. It's 'legal' but a bit of a grey area - can cause complications later if you go down the proper route.

@Annie ***********

Yes and no. You can get a visa, work permit, and teaching council approval for a limited time - but that's getting harder. You now have to complete and pass the TCT's 7 module program. It's specifically designed to stop people rocking up and teaching without any formal training (TEFL's are something but nowhere near enough) .

Take a few holidays here first - travel around and see where you like. Have some fun. When you hit 50, and meet the financial requirements for a retirement visa, then do that. No need for a full on commitment straight off - be smart, figure it out, then get on a retirement visa at a later stage.

We just ban them - kohsamuiweather.com

@Dave **********

there's only so much rice soup to go around Dave..

Free WiFi, rice soup, and some sort of crap data/graph displayed on the laptop.

@Lye *********

this is the correct answer 👌

There is a list of visas on the embassy website. You could (depending on your nationality) apply for a tourist visa for up to six months. Take a look around then use a local visa agent jn-country). Or, save a lot of hassle and apply for a retirement visa before entry. (Then convert to a yearly extension to stay).