Can you live in Thailand without knowing Thai?
Can you live in Thailand without knowing Thai? Do you need to speak Thai to live in Thailand? Well, if you're coming to live in any one of the tourist hubs (ie. Chiang Mai, Bangkok and the islands), the short answer is no. However, if you're planning to stay in Thailand over the long-term, then learning the local language will obviously enrich your experience.
Why not to retire in Thailand?
People here are amiable and hospitable. However, many retirees from different countries may experience a cultural shock since Thailand's culture is so much different from the US and European cultures. You can find many people in the bigger cities who speak English; however, it may be pretty tricky in rural areas.