Retirement in Thailand left him restless, so he opened a café

Kane, 54, had long desired to experience life beyond the United States, having traveled extensively throughout his career, which included stints in restaurants, software, construction, real estate, sales, and marketing. He previously ran a doggy day care near Atlanta, Georgia, before selling it during the pandemic.

He purchased a two-bedroom apartment in Mae Nam for $186,100 and initially secured a Thailand Elite visa, later transitioning to the Long-Term Resident Wealthy Pensioners visa for a ten-year validity.

After a year and a half of leisure activities, Kane felt a void. “There are only so many days you can spend at the beach and so many massages you can get,” he said. Seeking a sense of purpose, he partnered with his then-girlfriend, a personal trainer, to establish a café named Izzy’s Coffee, a tribute to his dog.

The venture began as a small outdoor kiosk costing approximately 100,000 Thai baht to construct, with an additional 400,000 Thai baht invested in equipment. Recognizing a lack of quality coffee options on the island, they combined it with banana cakes his girlfriend was already producing.

Kane now holds a work permit through his Long-Term Resident visa and co-runs Izzy’s Coffee with his current partner, Yam, developing all the café’s drink recipes. Six months ago, they enclosed the kiosk, transforming it into a fully-fledged café.

“I’m around every day, talking to people and making sure every customer has a perfect experience,” Kane stated. While he acknowledges the challenges and expenses of living in Thailand, he has found a sense of belonging. He has only returned to the US once in the past six years, for a funeral, and maintains close relationships with his ex-wife and her family.

Despite finding fulfillment in the café, Kane admits to feeling restless. “I took what was basically a box on the side of the road and turned it into something people seek out,” he said. “I don’t want 20 locations or to franchise, but now that the café is on autopilot, I’m getting bored again.” He continues to search for his next project, embracing a spirit of constant creation.