As an Asian who has spent considerable amount of time in Thailand due to having a girlfriend there, I agree with most of your points except the part where you c

As an Asian who has spent considerable amount of time in Thailand due to having a girlfriend there, I agree with most of your points except the part where you claim apartments cost $1,300 - 2,000 for a "livable" space. I find that it is simply not true - low-end but still nice condos in non-touristy areas can be had for between THB 15,000- 25,000 which is well below USD 1,000. You must be referring to the luxurious Sukhumvit condos, where the prices are higher probably because of the location and the fact that those are touristy, expat-y areas. Get a place in areas like Ratchada and you'll find the prices significantly lower for equal levels of comfort and luxury.