Pete :
I've worked in Saudi for nearly 5 years on a contract where my company pay for accommodation,food,laundry etc. so put some money away. It's not a bad life, tax free of course, but after 5 years I've had enough.
I go to Thailand, mainly HH 2 or 3 times a year and want to 'retire' there. However, at 46 I don't want to vegetate so wanted a business interest, not to make a fortune, just to supplement my current investment income until I get my pension in 19 years.
I have taken note from the contributors on this forum most of whom warn against getting a bar. However, if you want a business interest there is not a lot of choice for farang as I am sure you are aware.
I went to Phuket in April to look at a bar/restaurant, not a girlie bar, with a negative attitude but with the intention of ruling out ever owning a bar.
It was a partnership so the other farang did one shift in the bar and it didn't seem that bad. I work 9 hours without a break sat in front of a computer so 8 hours a day in a bar reading papers, chatting to customers, doing the accounts didn't seem too bad :
I am back in July to look at a food franchise and a small guesthouse/bar /coffee shop and another bar if they are still available but I will not rush in, it has to be right.
Any advice from Ken or any board member is most welcome.
See you all in July.
