Everyone has a different level of standard of living they are accustomed to. Whatever your standard of living is, I think it is much higher in Thailand, especially places like Pattaya and Chiang Mai, because things are so much cheaper than back home and there are services, things like getting laundry done or getting a close shave, that often times simply are not available in other countries. Aside from the economical aspects of Thailand the overall quality of life here is quite nice, especially for retired people who want to live a relaxed lifestyle. No place is perfect and living in a foreign country can be difficult for anyone but Thailand is one of the best places for that.
