Thailand draws more visitors than any other South East Asian country. The deep Lanna culture and gleaming temples of the north, the central plains with the historic former capitals of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, the lush southern peninsula, the idyllic tropical islands, and the buzz and excitement of Bangkok are all huge drawcards. Add in the cultural mystique, natural beauty and much-loved Thai cuisine. It is little wonder that Thailand is a favourite worldwide.
It’s not just tourists attracted to the “Land of Smiles”. Expats worldwide can choose from an array of Thai visas – for professionals, digital nomads, long-term residents for retirement, education, volunteer and more. Key locations include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, Phuket, Pattaya and Koh Samui. For those looking to take advantage of Thailand’s tropical coastline, the question often asked is, ‘Which is better, Phuket or Pattaya?’
This article highlights the similarities and differences between these two popular locations. Of course, your preferred location will depend on your reasons for moving to Thailand. Here are some key considerations.
Firstly Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, a major tourist destination some 800 km south of Bangkok on the Andaman (west) coast, with the Indian Ocean as its playground. On the eastern side of the Gulf of Thailand, approximately 200 km from Bangkok, Pattaya is also popular with international holidaymakers and weekend escapees for Bangkokians. Let’s look at some differences.
Location and Accessibility:
If you need easy access to Bangkok, Pattaya wins ‘hands down’. The continually improving network of motorways has reduced travel time to about two hours. Pattaya also has some upcoming significant improvements. U-Tapoa International Airport is slated to be Bangkok’s third international airport. This will be a total boon for this region, especially those in southern Chonburi Province and Rayong Province.
The train to Pattaya is inexpensive but slow, taking over three hours. But this will soon change with a new high-speed rail project connecting Don Mueang International Airport, Suvarnabhumi Airport and U-Tapao International Airports underway, providing a one-hour commute between Bangkok and Pattaya.
On the other hand, Phuket is at least 12 hours of travel by car or bus from Bangkok via a bridge to the mainland. It doesn’t have any train access. However, its own international airport provides easy global connections. It is also a relaxed one-hour flight to Bangkok plus other direct domestic destinations across the Thai kingdom.
Opportunities for Work:
Foreigners who work in Thailand must have a valid visa and work permit before coming to Thailand. Both Pattaya and Phuket have opportunities for professionals within the tourism and hospitality sector. Teaching is also a popular career choice in both areas.
However, the changing face of Pattaya is seeing a transformation from ‘party central’ to a high-tech commercial hub known as the Eastern Economic Corridor or EEC. Several multinationals are already established here, and targeted industries include next-gen automotive, electronics, advanced agriculture and biotechnology, medical tourism, aviation and logistics, IT, robotics and comprehensive healthcare. Highly skilled professionals, specialists and senior executives in these industries are being attracted to the EEC, with Pattaya as their new chosen home.
Housing:
Phuket and Pattaya offer many condos, particularly in the coastal areas, with Pattaya having taller, more imposing towers than Phuket. Condos provide a convenient and easy living. However, if you want more space, room for the kids and pets, or just being able to dip in your own pool, both locations have many splendid villas and detached houses.
Buying off-the-plan in Thailand is popular with investors or those looking for savings and not needing to move in immediately. Resale condos and houses are available, and there are many choices for those choosing to rent first.
Which Location Is Prefered:
Those enjoying Pattaya living will argue that Pattaya is best, with its vibrant lifestyle and easy access to Bangkok. Those relishing the Phuket island lifestyle sing its praises.
Families are guided by the work location, and each area is blessed with a great selection of international schools, from kindergarten up, offering British, US, and some European curricula. An excellent range of recreational and sporting facilities for adults and kids is widespread, and there is easy access to shopping, markets and restaurants.
If you retire in Thailand, recreational and community factors come into play. Excellent choices for golf, racquet sports, gyms, water sports, and other outdoor activities are available in both. Those keen to explore the outlying islands and beaches will find more options in Phuket.
The best locations in Phuket for expats tend to be on the island’s western side. Thalang is popular with retirees and those looking for a vibrant atmosphere, restaurants and bars, but still reasonably quiet. Some families are drawn towards Chalong and Kathu Muang areas. Rawai is popular with people seeking a relaxed atmosphere with restaurants, bars and beaches and easy access to the Central Festival shopping mall.
So, Which Will You Choose?
Lazudi has an abundance of property listings in Pattaya and Phuket, from oceanfront condos to spacious modern pool villas in outlying quieter areas. Whatever your wants and needs, you will find plenty of housing options in both Pattaya and Phuket.
