Are you dreaming of living on a Thai tropical island with all that comes with such an ideal environment? Phuket, perhaps, but is it a viable option? We think so, as do around 115,000 expats living on Phuket (pre-Covid) who cherish a relaxed and rewarding lifestyle on the “Pearl of the Andamans”.
Measuring 48 km north to south, 21 km across, beautiful landscapes, over 40 beaches, and a choice of outlying idyllic islands, Thailand’s largest island offers a lot. Phuket offers welcoming Thai hospitality, history and culture, excellent recreational facilities, great shopping, high-quality healthcare, and a tropical climate. Add to that delicious dining including Michelin rated restaurants and cafes, and vibrant nightlife.
With a total population of about 500,000 and attracting around 10 million visitors a year pre-Covid, it can become bustling in peak periods, so choosing the right location for your new home is vital. Here are some factors worth considering.
Transport, Recreation, Schools and Shopping
Transport:
Most people living in Phuket buy or rent a car or motorbike. Driving is relatively easy, with double lane motorways for the main thoroughfares and ongoing road improvements will help keep the traffic moving. However, driving from the airport to Rawai in the far south could take 70 to 90 minutes on a good run. So carefully where you live.
Public transport includes two bus routes stemming from Phuket town with service to the north and around the central area. Taxis, tuk-tuks, Grab, and motorbike taxis are also available.
Songtaews, the blue beach buses leave from Phuket town, with destinations including Chalong, Rawai, Nai Harn, Patong, Kata, Karon, Kamala, Surin, Nai Yang, and Thalang. Leaving half-hourly, they operate from 6 am to 6 pm daily.
Recreation
Many sports and activities are water-related. There’s also hiking in national parks and stunning viewpoints, island hopping, high-quality gyms and sports clubs, cycling, running and walking tracks, golf, yoga, tennis and adventure activities. Phuket Facebook Expat Groups also feature various gatherings, service clubs and particular interest group activities.
Schools
Suppose you have children and want an international school, no problem. With over ten schools offering Curriculum in British, American and more there is a good choice. Most schools are located in Kathu District. However, UWC is in the northern district of Thalang. Thai schools teaching in Thai, and some offering an English Program are available.
Shopping
In expat favoured neighbourhoods, shopping centres offer imported products and drinks and quality domestic products. The leading supermarket-style brands are Lotus, Big C, Tops, Makro, and Villa Market. Then there are also convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Family Marts on nearly every other corner. A good range of household products, furniture, clothing, electrical appliances, IT products is on tap too. IKEA even has a presence on the island. The local Thai wet markets offer quality at economical prices for fresh fruit, vegetables, and seafood.
Not into cooking? The good news is, eating out can be inexpensive. You can find markets and stall with meals from 40THB (1.20USD), and even the upmarket and international cuisine restaurants will be like much less than you would pay at home.
Working and Visas
Like most countries, you need the correct visa to work in Thailand. An employment contract should be secured, documentation completed and a Non-Immigrant ‘B’ Visa for working and business purposes received before leaving your home country. The more common occupations for expats on the island are tourism, hospitality, teaching, IT and management.
Phuket is extremely popular for retirees, and the Non-Immigrant ‘O’ offer long-stay visas covering retirement, marriage and volunteering. ‘ED’ visas cover education and study.
Property
Initially, staying in short term accommodation is ideal, so you can understand the infrastructure and amenities you would like to have close by. The rental market in Phuket has many properties, from studios to resort-style villas, and our Lazudi agents can assist you in finding a property just right for you.
If you decide to buy a property in Phuket, it can be easily achieved with assistance from a trusted agent and lawyer. And you may be pleasantly surprised at how affordable prices are compared to other international cities. The Phuket real estate market has many villas and condos, including numerous new condominium developments in Phuket.
Environment and Climate
Phuket temperature averages 25 – 34°C. Seasons are influenced by the tropical monsoon, with the Rainy season from May to November and the Dry season from December until March. During the wet, it’s uncommon to rain all day and tends to be heavy downpours which may cause flash flooding in low areas. It is best to investigate if minor flooding occurs in your preferred location.
Phuket was severely affected by the Tsunami in 2004. However, tsunami early detection buoys have been installed in the Andaman Sea and safe areas have been erected or designated in the event of an emergency.
Phuket is fortunate to have some of the best air quality in Thailand, with its location being a key component.
The Best Neighbourhoods
The housing in Phuket is about half condos and half villas and detached houses, with more condos in the tourist hotspots. Expats tend to live on the western side of the island. However, it depends on individual requirements for recreation, schools, shopping, etc.
The Thalang District in the north is away from the more popular tourist areas. Choeng Thale, including Bang Tao and Laguna, appeals to retirees and younger expats seeking a vibrant atmosphere, trendy restaurants and cafes, golf courses, and beautiful beaches, yet still reasonably quiet. Plus, it is relatively close to the airport. Naiyang, Naithon, Layan and Mai Khao are gaining popularity with numerous condominium and villa projects completed and under construction.
Further south, Surin and Kamala are popular with expats and holidaymakers and retain an almost small village charm, gorgeous coastlines and plenty of restaurant and entertainment facilities.
Patong, Karon, Kata are the most popular holiday spots on Phuket, and whilst there are some villas, it is mostly condos. For those keen to be amongst the action, especially the nightlife, this may be the place for you, however, be mindful of noise, especially at night.
Families are often drawn to the Chalong and Kathu Muang areas, further inland, closer to international schools, and a good choice of villas and detached houses.
Rawai is well sought after by those seeking the relaxed atmosphere of the restaurants, bars and beaches and easy access Central Festival shopping precinct.
These are just some of the popular areas appealing to expats. Whether you want to rent, buy, or invest in Phuket property, there are many options. Most importantly, engage a reputable agent to help you find your new piece of paradise.
