A man in his 50s has raised eyebrows among those around him after repeatedly claiming he is financially struggling, while at the same time making near-monthly trips to Hat Yai, Thailand. Despite often lamenting about being “poor” and having little savings, his travel pattern tells a very different story, one marked by frequent cross-border spending and lifestyle choices that appear far from frugal.
According to people familiar with his situation, each trip costs him around S$4,000 in discretionary spending alone. This figure excludes air tickets and accommodation, meaning the true cost of each visit is likely significantly higher. Over the course of a year, his expenses could easily exceed S$50,000, a sum that many Singaporeans would consider substantial, especially for someone who claims to be financially constrained.
What has drawn even more attention is the reason behind these trips. The man reportedly believes he has found love with a woman working in an industry that many would frown upon. While there is no suggestion of illegality, the nature of her work has led friends and acquaintances to question whether the relationship is built on genuine affection or financial dependency.
EMOTIONAL SPENDING AND THE ILLUSION OF ROMANCE
Those close to the man say he appears deeply emotionally invested, convinced that the relationship is authentic and meaningful. However, observers note that his spending increases with each visit, covering meals, gifts, entertainment and other expenses that quickly add up. In financial terms, this kind of emotional spending can be particularly dangerous, as decisions are driven by feelings rather than affordability.
In Singapore’s context, where retirement planning and healthcare costs are major concerns for those in their 50s, such spending habits can have serious long-term implications. Financial advisers often warn that repeated overseas expenditure, especially when funded from limited income or savings, can derail retirement plans and lead to future reliance on family or social support.
There is also the contradiction between his public narrative and private actions. While he tells others he is struggling with money, his frequent travel and high expenditure suggest otherwise. This disconnect has led some to speculate that he may be downplaying his spending or failing to recognise how his choices contribute to his own financial stress.
WHEN “POOR” IS A CHOICE, NOT A CONDITION
Experts point out that poverty is not always about income, but about priorities. A person may earn or possess enough resources, yet still feel perpetually short of cash due to repeated lifestyle splurges. In this case, spending thousands of Singapore dollars every month on overseas trips raises questions about financial self-awareness and responsibility.
Beyond money, there is also the emotional risk. Relationships that involve significant financial support can create unhealthy dynamics, where affection becomes blurred with obligation. For individuals approaching retirement age, the consequences of such arrangements can be severe if savings are depleted without long-term security in return.
Ultimately, the situation serves as a cautionary tale for middle-aged Singaporeans navigating loneliness, romance and financial pressure. Love, genuine or perceived, should never come at the cost of financial stability. Claiming to be poor while consistently engaging in high-cost lifestyle choices may not reflect hardship, but rather a pattern of decisions that prioritise short-term emotional satisfaction over long-term financial wellbeing.