Budget and lifestyle for new 61 year old retiree?
In the not too distant future, perhaps 6 months to 1 years time, I will be moving to Asia. I'm currently selling my house and most of my possessions. I will put some sentimental things into storage in the UK.
So, I've been watching some YouTube videos on Chiang Mai. Looks quite amazing to me. I currently live in a 21K population town in the South East of the UK. Very little going on in the way of decent food choice, which is a little sad since I am a foodie!
I am single, aged 61, and have no ties. I'm retiring early because I will have some money invested and will live off of the capital appreciation.
I've got a few lingering thoughts and questions about the whole move so hope someone can chip in with a few perspectives.
Is the food really that good and that inexpensive?
I like a decent cappuccino. I'm used to Costa coffee in the UK, although there is a decent artisan coffee shop a little further away from me, that I occasionally go to. Can you get decent cappuccino in Chiang Mai, for those who consider themselves coffee snobs?
How much for a one bedroomed place where they have a gym and pool?
How much to get a meal delivered to my condo or house? Say, perhaps a pad Thai and another side dish?
How much for a 1 hour massage? In the UK, you are looking at about £55 for 1 hour, which is about $75.
What is the dating scene like for a 61 year old male in reasonable shape?
How much per month do you suggest would be good for a good quality of life?
The thought of moving to Asia is starting to get real for me now. It brings some apprehension, since it will be such a change of lifestyle for me. My life has been very modest in recent years. For example, I rarely eat out, I go out for a coffee 3 times per week, have had one 45 minute massage in 10 years, not been on holiday in, believe it or not, 30 years. I'm curious how the quality of my life will change.
I'm looking forward to hearing from those who have taken the leap before me.