I'm another one that says ''do it ''. At your age, and with your experience I don't think it is something you will regret later on in life. Just make sure you have enough $$$ to last for a while as getting a job or a business that is going to show a profit from day one is going to be the hard bit.

Well,

I hate to be a negative voice..................but I am going to tell you to not do it. If you are 51 and don't have a retirement lined out, you need to max out now to build a nest egg.

If you think you are only working to live now...........wait until you see what wages you will live on in Cambodia. You will likely be very poorly paid. Your skills, contacts, and ability to live in Scotland will atrophy to the point where going back home will not be very viable.

You will be locked into a menial existence in Cambodia with no way out. Also, Cambodia is becoming more expensive and will likely get much more expensive in the next ten years. Entry level wages will not keep pace and your standard of living will only deteriorate. It is very difficult to find a decent wage in Cambodia unless you bring a specific skill that is in demand to the market.

Double down back home, work hard, and save money. Then, retire to Cambodia.

Sorry to step on your dream, but that is my best advice to you.

Working in social services you should contact an NGO with offices in Cambodia and try to get hired on prior to moving.

I agree with lonestar and OrangeDragon. A lot depends on what retirement plan you have (if any) in your present position in Scotland. If you have one and you leave now, what will you get and when. How long would you have to stay in your present position to get the retirement income you want or need. Cambodia is changing rapidly and the relatively cheap lifestyle possible now will be much more difficult ten years from now. Also, you are 51 you won't want to be living like a backpacker into your 60s. And as OD says, if you want to come, try to get something going in Cambodia before you cut your ties in Scotland. On the other hand the changing landscape does offer opportunities and no one should have to live a dreary life. Good luck whatever path you choose.

Look on the bright side:

If you come to Cambodia and it doesn't work out, at least you'll provide us with some interesting threads.