Just a couple more bahts' worth. The only thing that actually worries me, Jess, is the "I'm going to retire to Thailand and maybe start a business, part." The Thai government is delighted to consider having you retire here providing you can show a steady source of income. Starting a business is quite another matter, and reasonably so. There are very clear laws about what you can and cannot do, and how much cash you have to display in order to do it.

Making Thailand a major part of your life agenda is achievable, even on a relatively modest budget. You certainly could end up in the best relationship in your life, though it's certainly not going to be like any you've enjoyed in the west.

Think of the whole adventure as a trip to a casino, although it'll be a lot more fun. Know how much you can afford to lose, enjoy yourself if that's the way the cards go, and consider in advance how you'll know when it's time to call it quits. If you hit it big, great! If not, hey, it was fun, wasn't it?