@Marty ********

As long as you are able to speak basic Thai the majority of Thais should understand you fine. As you likely already know it makes life overall much less stressful and enjoyable. I am still learning everyday and am able to do anything by myself anywhere in either Thailand or Laos.

@Marty ********

Able to speak basic Thai?

@George ******

Afraid the locals might eat you?

@Stephen *******

Never understood the logic of traveling so far and the first thing you do is go hang with the very people you left behind. The locals the Thais become nothing more than background noise and your slave of sorts. SAD! WEIRD!

Why do you want to live with other foreigners in Thailand? Afraid ?

Yes and why?

@David *********

It does not matter how much you spend or where you live all that matters you are safe and happy.

This is an argument that has gone on for decades from expats. I am staying out of this battle. Because whenever I mention how cheaply and well I have lived here for over two decades. I am told I must be living in a broken down wood shack in Isan with no running water. If you are able to speak basic Thai you can save yourself a lot of $$$ and stress in the long run.

@Greg *******

My mistake Tourist/Expat slum banks.

The tourist slum banks example Koh Samui are famous for scams having said that most anywhere on the island.