As part of our ongoing series of great places to retire on Social Security, many Americans have discovered the famous beach resort community of Hua Hin, Thailand. Out of a population of approximately 85,000, about 10% of the residents are ex-patriots from other countries.
This lovely beachside city is the site of the Wang Klai Kan Won Palace, now used as the full-time residence of the King of Thailand. It has a tropical climate, with pleasant temperatures that average from 76 to 89 degrees Fahrenheit. The occasional rainfall amounts to about 39 inches a year.
What to Do in Hua Hin
This small city has good transportation, with its own domestic airport and modern rail service that can easily link residents to the major international airports in Bangkok and Suvarnabhumi. The beach extends for five kilometers and is considered beautiful and clean. Among the popular activities in the area are the beaches for snorkeling and swimming, golf courses, fishing, eco-cruising, spas, waterfalls, elephant camping, kite-boarding, national parks and a wide variety of restaurants and shops. There is a nightly street market where visitors can enjoy shopping and dining on local seafood that is prepared on the spot.
There are also fun karaoke bars, discotheques, and beer bars scattered throughout the city, especially near the seaside hotels. Festivals are an important part of life in Hua Hin. Among the annual events retirees can enjoy are the International Kite Festival, the Hua Hin Jazz Festival, and the Hua Hin Vintage Car Rally. Residents and tourists can also enjoy modern shops, as well as restaurants and clubs at the local hotels.
Health Facilities in Hua Hin
Hua Hin has several modern medical facilities, including the San Paulo Hospital, Hua Hin Red Cross, Bangkok Internation Hospital, and Hua Hin International Polyclinic. The Dr. Pairat Eye Clinic is also located there. Medical procedures in Thailand cost from 20% to 80% less than the same procedures in the U.S., and many people believe that the care you will receive is even better.
Living in Hua Hin, Thailand
American residents to this area will discover that English is widely used, and they can enjoy a high standard of living on a modest budget. According to a U.S. News article entitled “The Ideal Retirement Haven You’ve Never Heard of,” a couple could live comfortably here for $1,100 a month. Since most American retirees actually earn significantly more than this from their Social Security alone, this can be a very appealing location to consider. Sample prices:
2 bedroom furnished ocean view apartment: $900 – $1100 month
2 bedroom furnished home away from beach: $500 – $600 month
Full time housekeeper: $250 month
Two-hour massage: $15 – $25
For retirees wanting to take college classes, Webster University, which is the only international American accredited University in Thailand, has its main campus in the area.
– Wednesday, July 25, 2012 | By Deborah-Diane
http://www.baby-boomer-retirement.com/2012/07/luxury-retirement-in-hua-hin-thailand.html