You have always seemed to buck the trend with your lifestyle and in your posts on the forum, which I always found entertaining in many ways.
The list of reasons why you need to get out, I suspect, could apply to many expats in HH or other parts of the LOS, so you are not alone. It is just that for many they either get used to them, or, choose to ignore them.
"Being an alien" Well, aren't we all, compared to Thais. My wife of 17 years, still looks at me from time to time as though I'm from another planet.
Personally, after several years living in Thailand, our only reason for returning to the UK was for family reasons (elderly parents) and no other reason.
Unlike you, we did not need to work in Thailand, or UK, so did not find ourselves "working for 'precious' people who can't handle criticism" But I completely understand your frustration when dealing with some, not all, Thais.
Living in Thailand on a retirement visa never worried me and I always found the Immigration people very helpful. The thought of being kicked out, never crossed my mind.
Yes, the dirt and rubbish in some areas is awful but in general, not too bad. I think you will find that the UK is almost as bad in places now.
As for the Soi dogs, I found that a fixed stare and a large stick did the trick.
I have just come back from a visit to Thailand and Japan and was greeted to foul weather, rain and gales. But when I was away, I kind of missed it!
Joking aside, I think you will have a shock back in the UK, all political parties are shot and the country is in a kind of limbo until this EU thing is sorted. What the future holds in-store for the British people, heaven only knows, but we are about to find out.
I have never been to Harrogate, but I imagine that with many elderly residents living there, taking a stroll along the esplanade with all those old ladies sitting open legged and taking the air, you will smell the faint aroma of warm, slightly moist, winceyette.
Good luck CLC and keep in touch.
