Snowbirds in Thailand: How Lucie and Alain, 66, Are Reinventing Their Winters in Paradise

More and more Canadian snowbirds are trading the Caribbean for a different kind of winter... in Thailand. That’s the choice Lucie and her partner Alain made. This couple from the Laurentians isn’t just escaping the cold anymore: they’re living real adventures. For the past two winters, they’ve spent over three months exploring Thailand from North to South, from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, including Koh Lipe, Ao Nang, and even the idyllic beaches of Koh Lanta, where they settled in for a longer stay.

Their love affair with Thailand is no accident, as it checks all the boxes: dream landscapes, a laid-back lifestyle, and an unbeatable cost of living. Lucie and Alain appreciate all the charm of Asia, which makes Thailand a winter paradise to embrace: thousands of temples, tuk-tuks everywhere, and incredible street food. 

Find out why Thailand could be your next winter destination too.

As Snowbirds, Why Did You Choose Thailand for a Long Stay?

"Thailand had been a dream destination for both of us for years. We love being near water, beaches, and islands... and Thailand just had it all.

There’s the culture, the weather, but especially the idea of enjoying idyllic beaches at a great price. We wanted sun, beauty, good food, and affordability, and we got it."

How Did You First Discover Thailand?

"I read a lot of travel guides and blogs about Thailand, which allowed me to discover Koh Lanta, an island where we spent most of our time.

It's a reasonably sized island; there's tourism, but not too much, and it's not overcrowded. And then, we found a beachfront yoga centre that allowed us to combine vacation and wellness. In fact, that's one of the main reasons that convinced us to go back the following year."

Before Travelling to Thailand, How Did You Do Your Research and Prepare?

"I joined a few Facebook groups for visitors or Canadians in Thailand | Canadiens en Thaïlande. They’re gold mines! 

I also checked the visa requirements on the government’s website. Since we were staying 90 days, we had to apply well in advance, so that can become a source of stress because we wanted to be sure we could leave on time!

For flights, the first year, we used a travel agent because we weren't familiar with Southeast Asia. The next year, we organized everything ourselves.

We also learned how to use apps like Grab for taxis."

Where Did You Stay in Thailand?

"Mainly in hotels booked through Booking.com. We also kicked off our trip with a yoga retreat we found online: Maison Chiang Mai.

One piece of advice I’d give: it's a good idea to start your stay abroad with an activity that helps you settle in, especially with jet lag. It sets the stage for the rest of the trip."

What’s the Weather Like in Thailand During the Winter? Is the Water Warm Enough for Swimming? 

"In winter, in Thailand, you don't have to worry about the weather: it's beautiful all the time. However, in the North, it's a bit cooler, especially in the morning in February. Also, if you’ve got sensitive lungs, be aware of the burning season that starts around the end of February, as it can become unpleasant.

By the sea, the water is warm, sometimes even too warm! In April, it’s almost body temperature. And when the water’s that warm, you get more jellyfish, especially in the Andaman Sea. It can affect certain excursions. We saw quite a few around Krabi and Koh Lanta.

Overall, everything is simple and relaxed. Even though it might feel a bit chaotic, Thailand is super well-organized for tourists. There are domestic flights, boats between islands, and shared vans... no need to rent a car or a scooter (I'm not very comfortable with that anyway). You find tuk-tuks and taxis practically everywhere!"

Did You Feel Safe in Thailand?

"Always. Whether in Bangkok or elsewhere, I never felt threatened. Safety is one of the things I appreciate most about Thailand. I think the fact that it’s a predominantly Buddhist country has a lot to do with it: people are calm, smiling, and respectful. You don't see aggression, even in bars!"

What Is Important to Know About Staying Healthy in Thailand?

"You need to plan your vaccines several months ahead, especially if you’re 50 and over. It can cost around $1,000, so that needs to be budgeted. I got vaccinated for the flu, pneumonia, shingles, and depending on the region, you may need to think about malaria. Visiting a travel clinic is a must to get accurate information.

And if you get sick over there? Honestly, I’ve never been so well cared for. Private clinics are efficient, quick, and way more affordable than back home. That’s why I would never travel without full travel insurance: health, cancellation, and interruption. The older you get, the more important it becomes."

How’s the Food in Thailand? Any Local Dishes or Flavours That Stood Out to You?

"Everything! Pad Thai, curries, coconut shakes, mango lassis... it’s all delicious. The dishes are really healthy, with lots of veggies, fish, and tofu. I was surprised by the variety of vegetarian options, often cooked with coconut milk. My favourite dish? The cashew nut stir-fry!

Even if you’re not into spicy food, it’s easy. In restaurants, I’d just ask for “Canadian spicy” or “tourist spicy,” and they’d adjust. And for those who don’t drink, there are tons of mocktails too."

If You Don’t Speak Thai, Is It Possible to Travel There?

"Yes! As long as you speak English, you’ll be fine. In tourist areas, there’s always someone who understands. Even at the grocery store, labels are often in English. We didn’t even need Google Translate."

What Did You Enjoy Most About Thailand?

"The freedom. The calm. The stunning landscapes. And the kindness of the people, simply. The whole country gives off this peaceful vibe. Even in Bangkok, with all the crowds, I felt at ease.

I especially loved the yoga retreats. Being far from home helps you disconnect better. Travelling also gives us the chance to get away from everyday life, break out of our routine, and reconnect with ourselves. When we’re more present and open, we allow ourselves to experience something that can be truly transformative."

What Things Shook Up Your Routine During the Trip? 

"The organized chaos of Bangkok, hands down! It’s a city like no other. Tuk-tuks, street markets, crowds, noise, the swarm of scooters... at first glance, everything seems disorganized, but there’s a flow to it. What’s surprising is that, despite the bustle, no one honks, no one gets upset. You don't feel any tension, even in traffic.

We were also surprised to see how few people cook at home: street food is everywhere, incredibly affordable, and excellent quality. We quickly understood why most Thais prefer to eat out.

That said, you’ve got to be cautious: little tourist scams do exist. By our second day, we’d already been taken for a ride by a tuk-tuk that brought us on a fake excursion. It wasn’t a huge deal, but it’s a good reminder to book activities through a proper tourism office or online through sites like GetYourGuide."

Is the Cost of Living More Expensive in Thailand or Less Than in Canada?

"Way cheaper! When you look at your total daily costs, it’s about 50% less overall. Eating three meals a day at a restaurant, getting around by tuk-tuk, going on excursions... all that costs less than living normally in Canada."

Transportation:

"The flights to get there are one of the biggest expenses, especially compared to going to Mexico or Florida. But once you’re there, taxis and ferries totally replace the need for a car and gas, and it ends up being way more affordable."

Groceries and restaurants: 

"Three meals a day in restaurants can cost under $30 per person, and that's when you're not even being particularly careful. So eating out is cheap enough that it’s often not worth cooking for yourself.

That said, we did buy basics for breakfast, like yogurt, fruit, and bread, just to get us started for the day."

Accommodation: 

"This is where things have changed. It used to be cheap to stay in Thailand, but not so much on the islands anymore! If you want to stay right by the beach, it’s easily $120 a night. At that price, in high season, you end up with a budget of $3,000 a month just for lodging.

In the North, it’s still around $30–50 per night. You really have to compare options and remember to check if breakfast is included; it can make a big difference."

Did You Find Any Tricks to Save Money During Your Snowbird Stay in Thailand?

"We didn’t really go into full-on budget mode because we’d set aside some funds and didn’t want to deprive ourselves. But there are clearly ways to save more. For example, eating street food is way cheaper than going to restaurants.

For happy hour, grabbing a beer at 7-Eleven and drinking it on the beach is a great option. And wine? Skip it! It’s expensive and not that great.

Also, don't buy your SIM card at the airport! It's 3 to 4 times the price. At 7-Eleven, it's much more affordable."

What Day Trips Do You Recommend in Thailand?

"We did a few organized excursions and honestly, it’s hard to beat the posted prices, even if you try to negotiate. But professional companies come with insurance and a solid reputation, so it's worth the cost.

Generally, you should expect around 1200 THB, or about $50 per person for a day excursion. Temples, on the other hand, are free or very cheap, except for a few in Bangkok.

If you bring your own mask and snorkel, you can even snorkel for free in many spots!"

How Did You Stay in Touch With Family and Friends During Your Extended Stay in Thailand? 

"Super easy! There’s Wi-Fi everywhere. Literally everywhere. Even in the middle of the sea, we managed to get cell service!

We mostly used Facebook and Messenger and had a local SIM card. Now with eSIMs, it’s even easier. There are even options that cover all of Asia and are much easier to use while still being accessible with our home phone number."

Did You Have Travel Insurance for This Long Trip to Thailand? Did You Ever Need to Use It?

"Yes, of course, we always travel with insurance. We don’t take chances with that. Thankfully, we didn’t need it, but it’s reassuring to know we’re covered for medical emergencies, unexpected events, and so on."

Finally, What Would You Say to Someone Who’s Thinking About Becoming a Snowbird but Still Hesitating?

"Go for it, but go at your own pace. Three months can feel long if it’s your first time. Start with one month and see how you feel. Don't be afraid of getting bored: today, staying in touch with loved ones is easier than ever.

And above all, plan ahead! The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel. Six months in advance isn't too much, especially when discovering a new destination for the first time.

To make the flight ticket worthwhile, it's better to stay two or three months, but again, go with what works for you.

There’s travelling, where you move around, discover, explore... and then there are vacations, where you take time to relax. Ideally, mix the two to find the right balance."

Let Yourself Be Charmed by This Snowbird Alternative!

For Lucie and Alain, this kind of extended stay in Thailand isn’t just a winter break: it’s a true reset to rest, reconnect, and discover a new culture.

After a second winter in Thailand, Lucie and Alain are back in the Laurentians, but not for long. They’re getting ready to buy an RV to continue their adventures differently, this time on the roads of North America.

Want to follow in Lucie and Alain’s footsteps, but somewhere else? Stay tuned for several other articles dedicated to off-the-beaten-path snowbird destinations that go far beyond the classics of the Southern United States.

And don’t forget to get your travel insurance with a quick quote from soNomad well before your departure, so you can cross that off your prep list!