In 2020, the world was in chaos, but for me, it was a turning point. After COVID, I made a bold decision: I quit my job and embarked on a two-year journey through Southeast Asia. My base of operations? Jomtien, just outside of Pattaya, Thailand. Here’s a glimpse into my unforgettable adventure.

Setting Up in Jomtien, Thailand: My New Home

I settled in the beautiful Riviera Condo in Jomtien, a quiet, relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby Pattaya. With four swimming pools, two saunas, a steam room, pool tables, a kids’ playroom, and a lounge, the Riviera was the perfect place to unwind. If you wanted action, a quick 10 Baht ride on a local taxi would take you right into the heart of Pattaya.

Jomtien itself is a lovely coastal town with a long beach lined with cozy restaurants, cafés, and bars. It’s only 1.5 to 2 hours from Bangkok by taxi (1,800-2,000 THB) or bus (around 300 THB). My daily routine? A morning walk along the beach, followed by coffee at a local café with a stunning view of the ocean.

Exploring the Local Treasures around Jomtien

From my apartment in Jomtien, I had access to some of the best spots in the region. One of my favorite hangouts was Big Buddha, a towering statue located on a hill just a short drive from my condo. The views from there were breathtaking, and it was the perfect place to clear my mind.

I also spent plenty of time in Pattaya, where I discovered two amazing shopping malls: Terminal 21 and Central Pattaya Beach. Both offer great dining options with affordable restaurants, and I often enjoyed a cheap yet delicious meal there. Plus, there’s a nice cinema to catch the latest movies. Of course, you can indulge in some shopping while you’re at it!

Another must-visit attraction near Pattaya is the Temple of Truth. This stunning wooden structure looks like it belongs in a fantasy novel—intricately carved with religious and mythological imagery. It’s not only a place of beauty but also a monument to Thai craftsmanship. I also had a blast at Pattaya’s quirky 3D Art Museum, where the interactive exhibits allowed me to step into bizarre and playful optical illusions.

Daily Life in Jomtien

Living in Jomtien was like being on permanent vacation. My 25sqm apartment had everything I needed, including a small balcony with sweeping views of the ocean and sunsets that were simply breathtaking. I’d often hop on my scooter during the day to explore nearby attractions, and I made it a daily habit to visit the local food market to buy fresh vegetables, eggs, and fruit. It’s a great way to support local vendors and eat healthily.

In the evenings, the local night market was my go-to spot for a delicious, budget-friendly dinner. However, on days when I didn’t feel like going out, I’d order food via Grab, a popular delivery app, and have dinner conveniently brought right to my condo. Thai food at my doorstep—what more could I ask for?

Once a week, I indulged in a Thai massage, and every three weeks, I treated myself to a haircut and manicure. Life in Thailand was incredibly affordable, and these little luxuries quickly became part of my routine. It’s easy to get used to the laid-back lifestyle, with all the conveniences and comforts at your fingertips.

Visa Runs and Beyond: Cambodia and Vietnam

Like many travelers in Thailand, I was on a tourist visa, which needed renewal every 90 days. After a few renewals, I was informed that I wouldn’t be able to extend it again. So, I took the opportunity to explore neighboring Cambodia for a month. Cambodia’s beauty, especially the ancient temples of Angkor, left a deep impression on me.

After Cambodia, I made my way to the Philippines to visit a friend and his family for two weeks. It was great catching up and seeing a different side of Southeast Asia. The warmth of the people and the stunning natural scenery made this visit truly special.

Later, I returned to Thailand for another six months before heading off to Vietnam for a four-week stay. Vietnam was vibrant and bustling, with a unique culture that fascinated me. I had the chance to visit another friend and get a more in-depth experience of the country. You can read more about my time in Cambodia and Vietnam in my previous blog posts!

The End of the Adventure: Back to Reality

By the end of 2022, I found myself back in Germany, reflecting on my two years in Southeast Asia. It was more than just a vacation—it was a test to see if I could picture myself living in Asia during retirement. The verdict? Absolutely. Whether it’s Thailand’s relaxed lifestyle or Vietnam’s exciting energy, I know that I could easily see myself calling Southeast Asia home one day.

Final Thoughts

For anyone considering a long-term stay in Southeast Asia, I can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re based in a place like Jomtien, enjoying the slower pace of life, or traveling from country to country, there’s an adventure waiting for you. Thailand, in particular, won my heart, and I’ll definitely be back—maybe for good.

Until the next adventure,

Heiko