The problem is that because of my ability to teach online from almost anywhere in the world (mobile internet speeds/coverage having improved hugely over the years), I am spoilt for choice where to live, and the choice of different locations fly around inside my head and I change my decision every other minute!
Perhaps TS members can firmly put my mind at rest with their recommendation between 2 options that I'm considering. I should emphasize that I am only looking in Thailand. The idea of living in a different country is not in my thoughts, (but ask me again next week!!).
I have been living in Pattaya since returning to Thailand 2 months ago. The reason was simply that I needed to sort out my visa at their immigration office, AND wait the delivery of various parcels from Lazada and Aliexpress (scientific project items, no sex dolls.....). Tomorrow I collect my long-term rental car, wait for the final parcel due to arrive next week, and then point my car either north or south.
The 2 locations are somewhere close to the Mekong river in Isaan, or a property on Samui island, (so 2 very different locations). I have been offered a small, private house in south Samui for 10,000 baht/month, 300 metres from the beach, and with lots of land for my radio antennas. In Isaan, I am confident of finding a cheap house to rent.
Where would you live?
I tend to avoid other foreigners, because I find them either glass-half-empty sort of folk, or their permanent scowls are depressing. So 'remote' Isaan scores well
I like to run/jog in the early morning (Pattaya beach promenade is great for that). But I prefer rural locations, which discounts Pattaya. (Rural because I like nature and there is less electrical noise to interfere with my radio hobby).
I enjoy karaoke bars/singing, but am too old for discos/clubs, hmmmm maybe Isaan again
I like to walk on a nice beach, but rarely swim. So Samui sounds good.
I prefer Thai food, I'm sure both locations score OK on this point.
In 3 years from now, I start to draw my meagre UK state pension, and I have no idea when/if I will stop teaching. If I had to live solely on my pension income, then that would work fine in Isaan, but probably not in Samui. Who knows what will happen.....
I enjoy being tied up and beaten by sadistic young Thai women (that is an exaggeration for those without a SoH...) The cost is probably much less in Isaan!
I'm fit and healthy now - both locations are not that close to a decent hospital. Something maybe to consider.
Er what else? I don't know (or maybe I do... no I don't!!).
Of course, there are many other great locations to choose from in Thailand. I have discounted some as being too close to ex-wives (who will come begging for $ etc), or too close to my Thai nieces (who will come begging for $), or too urban. Decisions, decisions....