The Algorithm Thinks I Need a Beach. I Agree.

The algorithm must know what I need: a beach, a little luxury, and a dollar that stretches farther than I do.

Lately, I’ve been looking into leaving the United States and living abroad. The Philippines, which I already love, keeps popping up alongside Vietnam and Thailand—two places I haven’t visited yet.

Now, I’m not looking to become a beach survivalist. I want the nice things: reliable internet, modern conveniences, and, most importantly, good healthcare. Dialysis has to fit into this dream. It’s nonnegotiable, even with an ocean view.

According to my very enthusiastic travel adviser, The Google, Thailand deserves a closer look. Hua Hin has caught my attention with listings for luxury one-bedroom condos around $1,000 a month, complete with security and amenities. My searches also suggest potentially manageable residency options and out-of-pocket dialysis costs. All things I’ll need to verify before packing my flip-flops.

And can ride-share apps handle my transportation? Goodbye car payment, insurance, maintenance, and whatever that noise under the hood is.

I want to spend however much time I have left enjoying my life. Preferably somewhere the ocean is close and my money lasts longer.

To my Vietnamese readers: reach out! Where should I look, and what should I know? The algorithm has opinions. I’d love yours.