HUA HIN — The survey by BeWell and Hua Hin Today reveals that while expatriates are generally satisfied with their quality of life in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, several areas need improvement, including high medical insurance costs, road safety, and environmental issues.
The survey was presented at Belvedere Estate Hua Hin, with Mr. Giovanni van Dam, Digital Business Development Director of Siska Design, Mr. Heiko Emanuel, co-founder of “BeWell,” and Mr. Jonathan Fairfield, Executive Editor of “Hua Hin Today.” More than 50 foreigners attended, alongside the President of Hua Hin Lions Club, a consultant to the Hua Hin/Cha-am Tourism Business Association, and tourist police.
Mr. van Dam revealed that the study was supported by faculty from Assumption University’s International Business Management Department in Bangkok and is one of the most comprehensive surveys of foreign retirees in Thailand.
The research collected data from over 500 foreign retirees and semi-retirees living in Hua Hin, aged 55 and above, who stay in Hua Hin at least six months per year. The sample included foreigners from 76 countries, primarily from Western Europe and North America. The average respondent had lived in Thailand for 12.5 years, with nearly one-third having lived in Hua Hin for at least ten years.
Primary reasons for choosing Hua Hin included its peaceful atmosphere, proximity to beaches, reasonable cost of living, good climate, and convenient travel to Bangkok. One respondent stated, “Hua Hin isn’t a big city, but it has everything you need, and if you must go to Bangkok, travel is convenient.”
Mr. Emanuel noted that despite overall satisfaction, some factors cause expatriates to consider relocating, particularly high healthcare and insurance costs, which primarily affect those aged 55-60 years when considering long-term residence.
Key issues identified for improvement include:
- Road safety, especially frequent traffic accidents
- Seasonal air quality and pollution
- Uncertain tax systems for retirees
- Complicated visa procedures for long-term stays
- Urban cleanliness issues and stray dog problems affecting the city’s image
Mr. Fairfield stated this was the first detailed and comprehensive survey of retired foreigners in Hua Hin. “It’s good that we’re hearing directly from those who have chosen Hua Hin as their home. Understanding their experiences and perspectives will help various sectors develop the city to be better and more livable for everyone.”
The survey confirms Hua Hin remains a popular destination for foreign retirees, though improvements in safety, environment, and healthcare systems would help ensure the city remains an attractive and sustainable destination in the future.
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