Joe Green’s Journey from City Living to Building a Dream Home by the Sea
In a captivating tale of transformation, Joe Green, a retired US Department of Defense veteran, shares his story of bidding farewell to the bustling city life of Bangkok to pursue a more serene existence by the sea in Central Thailand. Less than two years after settling in the Thai capital, Green and his fiancée, Gift Prakaew, decided to leave the city behind, embarking on a remarkable journey that led them to build their dream home in Prachuap Khiri Khan.
A City Dream Dashed
After a successful career and retirement from the US Department of Defense in 2018, Green initially sought the excitement of city living. Hailing from Hoboken, New Jersey, near Manhattan, the allure of urban life was ingrained in him. However, the high cost of living in major cities led Green to explore alternatives, eventually steering him towards Asia, specifically Thailand.
Upon arriving in Bangkok, Green was instantly captivated. “Before I even got out of my taxi, I said, ‘This is where I’m going to live,'” he recalled. However, the realities of city living, marked by smog and noise pollution, prompted Green to reassess his choice.
The Call of the Countryside
In search of a quieter and healthier lifestyle, Green and Prakaew explored the provinces of Thailand, ultimately finding solace in Prachuap Khiri Khan. Surrounded by mountains and a mere five-minute walk from the sea, the couple decided to make this tranquil locale their permanent home.
Despite foreign ownership restrictions on land in Thailand, the couple purchased a plot under Prakaew’s name for $40,000, laying the foundation for their future abode.
Building Dreams by the Sea
With a clear vision in mind, Green and Prakaew embarked on an eight-month journey to build their dream home, overseeing every detail from layout to design. The couple’s one-story, three-bedroom home, spanning less than 2,000 square feet, reflects their modern taste with a white, grey, and black color scheme.
Undeterred by their lack of construction experience, the couple actively participated in the decision-making process, choosing everything from tiles to furniture. The result? A sleek and comfortable haven that became their sanctuary.
Embracing a New Lifestyle
Reflecting on their move, Green emphasized the affordability of life in Thailand compared to the United States or Europe. With a monthly expenditure of approximately $3,000, the couple enjoys a comfortable and laid-back lifestyle. Their home, surrounded by nature and free from the noise of city life, perfectly complements their desire for tranquility.
Green’s advice for those considering a similar move is to live like a local first, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the climate and overcoming language barriers. The couple’s journey is not only a personal triumph but also a shared experience, as they document their life on a YouTube channel, offering insights into expat life and building a home in Thailand.
As Green and Prakaew continue to share their adventures, their story stands as an inspiration for those seeking a change, showcasing that sometimes, the path to happiness may lead away from the familiar and towards the unexplored.