cmdream

Boil it down from what I read here is get the hel_l out of Manilla ASAP. The rest of the country is friendly and livable. To compare with CM
as an expat place to live it is worth a couple weeks try. What the hel_l you can always come back

Now I know why I never ask for directions.

Another neat aspect on living here is the ability to get away . An International airport for distance and well kept roads for those who
want to explore the North of Thailand. 15 minutes outside the city is a whole new world full of delights for the senses. When the feet get itchy I pack some undies and polo shirts on my Phantom and head out. 2 hours to Pei, 3 to Chaing Rai 4 to Mae Sai. Doi Angkan , Chiang Dao, Mae Hong Son the list is endless.  No reservations needed, always find a clean G.H. and good food along the way.

As for the traffic, it is an old city with narrow streets so rush hour can be a pain. 7:30 to 9 AM and 4 to 6 PM you might as well be in L.A.
act accordingly . Chok dee:D

If you really want to trip out on posters check  the Pattaya forum and the daily news. Yikes !!!

What he means is that simply dumping 800k in the bank and rolling out the bank book each year is frowned upon and could lead to their refusing to renew your extension of stay. now if the current rate was 2m baht and you lost your grandfather status, then you would need 2m. What they really want to see is you spending your 800k and then bringing in another tranche to give them. Of course some simple manipulation can overcome this but immigration staff are a law unto their own and if they don't want to play ball, they won't. I have heard about people being told that this year will be ok but not next year for a static 800k.

Another option is to spend 10m on a condo (or in multiple condos) or invest 10m in agreed assets, including government bonds. That qualifies you for an investment visa.

Back on the question of where else to go, dare I say that this topic has come up because of worsening exchange rates and what people really mean is not where is better but rather where is cheaper ?
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I think your post is pure BS. Frowned upon ? Could lead to refusal ! Then you say 2M !  What is your true intent ? The rules for renewal are set. After my 5 years renewal never a question.  Bring the right docs and its a breeze.