After a brief exile due to visa expiration, I spent a month in Vietnam before successfully re-entering Thailand and securing a 15-month visa. From that point forward, I made Thailand my home, staying through the rest of 2024 and well into 2025.
My travels took me across the country—from the mountains of Chiang Mai in the north to the beaches of Phuket in the south. Bangkok became a frequent stop, where I stayed in various hotels and leased multiple condos for months at a time. But after weighing all factors—weather, cost of living, city size, and proximity to both the beach and Bangkok for major airport access—I ultimately chose Pattaya as my long-term base.
Settling in, I signed a one-year lease on a modern condo with a full kitchen (perfect for my love of cooking), plus amenities like a pool, fitness center, sauna, steam room, and secure parking for my motorbike. Just a short walk from the oceanfront, my new home provided the perfect mix of comfort and convenience. Along the way, I immersed myself in Thai culture—practicing the language, reading about the Land of Smiles, and enjoying an endless variety of Thai cuisine.
For a change of scenery, the island of Koh Larn is a quick boat ride away – a perfect escape for a few hours or a few days.
Life in Pattaya was good—not just for the mind and body but also for the wallet, as the cost of living is far lower than in the U.S. To add to my daily routine, I even purchased a Yamaha portable grand piano, allowing me to indulge in my lifelong passion for playing keyboards.
Thailand has given me an incredible year filled with adventure, new friendships, and a lifestyle that perfectly balances exploration and relaxation. Here’s to many more experiences ahead!
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