The 8 Best Countries to Retire on Budget

 Not everyone retires rich and famous. If you're taking early retirement, and you need your dollars to stretch, here are the eight best countries to do that in. We based our criteria on cost of living, ease of living, language, transportation, health care and visa issues (how hard is it to stay long-term in the country).

Warnings About Travel

 I can no longer recommend Thailand as a travel destination. No one should travel at this time

Lake Nawamin in Bangkok's East End Bangkapi

On the east side of Bangkok is the district of Bangkapi. It's loaded with shopping, light on tourists, and houses two of the largest Universities in Thailand: Ramkamhaeng University and ABAC (Assumption). If you find yourself in this area, check out Lake Nawamin. It's a beautiful lake with a 2.5 km running track.

Elephant Tours in Ayutthaya, Thailand

Review of the Ayutthaya Elephant Kraal Near Bangkok, Thailand

There many places in Thailand to ride, see, or interact with an elephant. You can even find them with mahoots (elephant handlers) in the middle of Bangkok (although less often these days), and offer them money for a ride and to take photos. However, not all these elephants are accustomed to tourists and many are not safe. In the city, some of these elephants go on a rampage after hearing loud noises or fireworks. Some Bangkok mahoots don't know how to deal with tourist; their elephants don't know how to react either. There are also tours that will take you deep into the Burmese jungles, but these are not for casual tourists. However there is one excellent place for a safe and fun experience riding elephants: the Ayutthaya Elephant Kraal.

How to Tell Time While Traveling in Thailand

Telling the Time in Thailand. Traveling in Thailand, many misunderstandings come from their very different way of telling time. Here's a guide to the 4 time segments used by Thais.

Songkran Water Festival for Thai New Year

The 3-day festival of water throwing to start the Thai New Year in Bangkok, Thailand.

BatCat Toy Museum and Cafe in Bangkok

Take a peek at the unique BatCat Toy Museum and coffee shop in Bangkok, Thailand.

Lakeside Restaurants in Bangkok at Ramkhamhaeng 110 Bangkapi

Quiet romantic dining in Bangkok's East End, at several Lake View restaurants along Ramkhamhaeng soi 110.

In between Bangkapi and Minburi, on the east side of Bangkok, you'll find a series of quiet lakes, the Sammakon Lakes. These waters are dotted with restaurants and pubs - all recommended for good food and quiet atmosphere.

Taking the Train from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur and Singapore

A guide to taking the first class train from Bangkok, Thailand to Kuala Lumpur and then Singapore.