I've been living in SEA for a few years now, my expenses usually range between $1-2k/mo in BKK, what were you doing and where were you that you're spending more than $2k/mo in SEA? I've lived everywhere from $150/mo studio apartments to $1k/mo condo's in BKK and it was hard for me to break $2k/mo if I tried. Usually closer to $1.5k/mo for me.
I was living in Vietnam. I payed about $550/mo to live in hotels. I took about 1-2 flights per month to various countries or cities (~$80ea).
I also ate like a westerner (avoided street food, enjoyed the higher quality food). Didn't own a motorbike for safety reasons, so taxies added up. Gym membership is ~$100/mo.
