A retired security officer from Europe who relocated to a warm country in the Southern Hemisphere has disclosed the actual expenses of his lifestyle there.
Bragi Jonsson, an Icelandic national, despises the harsh winter conditions in his homeland. Consequently, he has been escaping to Thailand for extended periods since 2020 to bask in the sun and embrace the local culture. During his recent stay in Pattaya, a lively coastal city in Thailand known for its vibrant beaches and nightlife, Bragi spoke with The Mirror about his experience.
Expressing his contentment, Bragi highlighted the affordability of living in Thailand compared to the UK or Iceland. He emphasized that dining out is cheaper than cooking at home, citing examples of prices for meals such as pad thai and steak with beer. He mentioned that a large bottle of Chang or Singha beer costs around £1.60 in shops, slightly more in bars.
Regarding accommodation costs, Bragi currently pays £240 per month for a studio apartment in Thailand, inclusive of utilities and internet. Reflecting on his lifestyle choices, Bragi, who retired in 2021 after a career in security and hospitality, expressed a preference for travel over ownership of possessions. He plans to settle in Thailand long-term and has no desire to return to Iceland due to high living costs and cold weather.
Apart from his stays in Thailand, Bragi engages in house-sitting opportunities across Europe when not traveling. He has embraced Geo Caching as a hobby, exploring new locations while staying fit. His travel experiences align with a trend observed by Thomas Cook, with an increasing number of couples opting for luxury accommodations in Thailand. Nicholas Smith, Thomas Cook’s holidays digital director, noted a significant surge in bookings for Thailand, attributing it to the country’s appeal for budget-conscious travelers seeking exotic destinations.
