We are planning to take a year to live in Chiangmai. We would like to live in the city in close proximity to shopping etc. We are from the U.S. and are in our early 50's. We plan to spend 50-70 % of our time in Chiangmai and to travel to other places ( China, Cambodia, Vietnam etc) the remaining time. We are planning to come over early 2018 and intend to stay about 1 year initially. I'm sure I will ask a lot of questions but here are a few to start. Accommodations - would it be better to buy or rent? Planning to stay for 1 year however we will consider a longer more permanent stay depending on how we like it Pets - we have a small 7 lb toy poodle. Any challenges bringing a pet? How about vets? Boarding if we travel? Retired Visa - how hard is it to get the over 50 visa? Is the process hard from the states? Is it better to come to Chiangmai to do paperwork and to find a condo or apartment? Healthcare - any thoughts on healthcare insurance? Pay as you go? Traveling - any problems going to surrounding countries for short visits? Thank you I advance and sorry for so many questions.