Global Demand Surges as Thailand Becomes the World’s New Luxury Retirement Capital

An Exclusive Cover Story Featuring Andrew Stocks, Founder & CEO of Sunshine International

“Retire to Thailand with Sunshine International”

A New Golden Era of Global Retirement Begins in the East

For decades, retirees from Europe sought the warm comforts of Spain, Portugal, or Cyprus. Their dream was simple: sunshine, serenity, and a lifestyle that felt both beautiful and secure. But in recent years, something extraordinary has happened, a shift so powerful that it is rewriting the global map of retirement living.

The world’s new retirement capital isn’t in the West.
 It’s in Thailand, the jewel of Southeast Asia, where natural beauty, service culture, affordability, and world-class healthcare come together seamlessly.

Leading this global transformation is Andrew Stocks, the visionary Founder and CEO of Sunshine International, a luxury retirement lifestyle group redefining how retirees live, age, and thrive abroad. With more than two decades in Thailand, Stocks has built a model that blends resort-style living with premium medical support, a hybrid that many now consider the future of global retirement.

In this exclusive interview, Andrew opens up about why retirees across Europe are turning east, how Thailand became the world’s most desirable retirement destination, and what makes Sunshine International an icon of elegance, comfort, and security.

Why Thailand? Why Now?

When asked why Thailand suddenly commands global attention as a retirement haven, Andrew’s answer is simple, and strikingly honest.

“Retirees today want safety, luxury, medical care, and affordability. Thailand delivers all four, and then exceeds expectations.”

Unlike many European destinations where costs are rising and healthcare access is tightening, Thailand offers a standard of living that is remarkably high yet surprisingly attainable. Its natural environment, tropical climate, and gentle-paced lifestyle create an atmosphere that nourishes the body and mind.

More importantly, Thailand’s culture, rooted in warmth, kindness, and attentiveness, creates something retirees rarely experience back home: genuine care.

“Thai people are warm, gentle, and service-minded,” Andrew shares. “Retirees feel truly looked after, something many miss in their home countries.”

Why Europeans Are Choosing Thailand Over Spain and Portugal

In a world where retirees are becoming more value-conscious, Thailand stands out.

“Value for money,” says Andrew.
 “The lifestyle, service levels, and medical systems here simply outperform what most retirees can access back home.”

From daily wellness routines to five-star hospitality standards, retirees discover they can enjoy a luxurious life in Thailand for a fraction of European costs, without compromising safety or comfort. This balance of affordability and high-end living is fueling a global migration trend, with thousands now choosing Thailand for long-term retirement.

Sunshine International: A New Standard in Luxury Retirement

At the center of this movement is Sunshine International, Andrew’s crown jewel and one of the most respected retirement community brands in Asia.

What makes Sunshine International different?

Andrew explains it best:

“We fuse hotel-level luxury with medical support, social programming, and peace of mind. Retirement here means no compromises.”

Instead of traditional nursing homes, Sunshine International offers:

• Elegant private residences
• Resort-style amenities
• 24/7 medical staff
• Daily health check-ups
• Hotel-grade hospitality
• Social events, fitness programs, and excursions
• A strong, warm community that feels like home

Residents aren’t seen as patients, but as guests deserving dignity, respect, and exceptional service.

“Our residents keep their dignity,” Andrew says firmly. “That matters.”

The Vision Behind the Movement

The inspiration for Sunshine International was sparked two decades ago when Andrew recognized Thailand’s potential long before the global retirement boom began.

“Thailand already had beauty and hospitality,” he recalls. “We added structure, safety, and elegance.”

Influenced deeply by iconic figures in global hospitality, including the legendary Mrs. Heinecke Sr., Andrew learned that true luxury isn’t about price. It’s about precision, attention to detail, and genuine care.

Her mentorship shaped his leadership philosophy:

“Luxury is a mindset, not a price point,” he reflects.

When Hospitality Meets Healthcare: A Global First

Medical support is non-negotiable for retirees, especially those living abroad. Sunshine International doesn’t just acknowledge this, it elevates it.

“24/7 medical staff, daily check-ups, open nurse access,” Andrew lists.
 “Families feel reassured from day one.”

In a world where healthcare systems are overburdened, this level of support is unprecedented, and deeply comforting.

Families touring the residence often have the same reaction:

“Relief,” Andrew says.
“They see safety, community, and a joyful life, not just care.”

A Life Filled With Joy, Community & Wellbeing

Modern retirement isn’t about slowing down, it’s about living fully.

“Fitness, excursions, events, swimming, retirement today is full of life,” Andrew explains.

And retirees couldn’t agree more. Sunshine International’s residents often say something that Andrew hears repeatedly:

“I wish I moved sooner.”

Thailand’s lush greenery, warm climate, and tropical air also play a role in wellbeing. They enhance mobility, lift mood, and improve overall happiness, a natural advantage no European retirement hub can replicate.

Accessible Luxury: The Price Range

One of the most surprising elements of Sunshine International is its accessibility.

Residences start at US$150,000 and go up to US$500,000, pricing that allows retirees to experience high-end living without financial strain.

“It’s designed to remain accessible while still offering luxury,” Andrew emphasizes.

Leadership, Values & Personal Philosophy

After 30 years in Thailand, Andrew reflects on the lessons that shaped him.

Developing his first major Thai project taught him patience, cultural respect, and the importance of collaborative local partnerships.

His values today remain rooted in:

• Integrity
• Consistency
• Hospitality
• Discipline
• Respect

“I’m old-fashioned,” he smiles. “And proud of it.”

Leadership, he believes, is about combining vision with personal connection.

“I believe in face-to-face communication and lifting people the ladder.”

Daily exercise and healthy eating keep him focused, grounded, and aligned with his demanding role.

Future Horizons: Chiang Mai, Pattaya & Phuket

Driven by passion and purpose, Andrew is now expanding Sunshine International into Thailand’s most sought-after regions:

• Chiang Mai – cultural capital with idyllic landscapes
• Pattaya – vibrant, international coastal destination
• Phuket – world-famous tropical island paradise

“These are the future of global retirement,” he declares.
“We aim to build leading communities that set new global benchmarks.”

A Message to European Retirees

When asked what he would say to retirees considering Thailand, Andrew’s words are heartfelt:

“You deserve a beautiful life. Don’t settle. Discover the joy Thailand can offer.”

His advice is simple:
Visit. Stay a week. Experience the magic.
Most fears dissolve instantly.

A New Global Benchmark in Retirement Living

The world is witnessing a retirement revolution, one driven by higher expectations, better lifestyles, and a desire for dignity, joy, and well-being.

Sunshine International stands at the pinnacle of this movement.

It offers not just a place to live, but a sanctuary, a fusion of luxury, healthcare, hospitality, and community unlike anything retirees have seen before.

For millions seeking a happier, healthier, more fulfilling retirement, Thailand isn’t just a destination.
It is the future.

And at the heart of it all is Andrew Stocks, a visionary leader turning dreams into world-class communities that bring joy, security, and elegance to life’s golden years.                

Official Links: 
Website: https://sunshine-residences.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/polohelp/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-stocks-5bb097236/?originalSubdomain=th