U.S. Consulate General Chiang Mai

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"Thailand offers picturesque islands, a tropical climate, and affordable housing—with a cost of living about 47% lower than the U.S. and rent about 72% cheaper—and choices ranging from Bangkok and Chiang Mai to islands like Koh Samui and Phuket. The country provides long-term visas for people over 50 that require 800,000 baht (about $23,100) in savings and annual renewals, and it boasts excellent private and public hospitals with English-speaking doctors and nurses; expats cannot access public health insurance but can obtain private health insurance." - Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty is a writer who specializes in covering destinations, resorts, and cruises for Travel + Leisure and other publications. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines