Thinking about moving to Prachuap Khiri Khan? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Prachuap Khiri Khan, a charming province in southern Thailand, is a place that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a laid-back lifestyle. It’s a place where you can enjoy the tranquility of pristine beaches, explore lush national parks, and immerse yourself in the local culture. But like any place, living in Prachuap Khiri Khan has its pros and cons. Let’s delve into the details to give you a comprehensive view of what life in this Thai province entails.
Pros of Living in Prachuap Khiri Khan
One of the biggest advantages of living in Prachuap Khiri Khan is the access to stunning natural beauty. The province is home to several national parks, including the famous Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park. Here, you can explore limestone caves, hike up to viewpoints offering panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand, and spot a variety of wildlife. The park also offers opportunities for bird watching, with over 300 species of birds recorded.
Prachuap Khiri Khan is also known for its beautiful beaches. Ao Manao, for instance, is a crescent-shaped bay with clear turquoise waters and soft white sand. It’s a perfect place to relax, swim, and enjoy water sports. The beach is also part of the Wing 5 Royal Thai Air Force base, which means it’s well-maintained and less crowded than other touristy beaches.
Another advantage of living in Prachuap Khiri Khan is the cost of living. Compared to bigger cities like Bangkok or tourist hotspots like Phuket, the cost of living in Prachuap Khiri Khan is significantly lower. You can find affordable housing, whether you’re looking to rent or buy. Eating out is also cheap, with a plethora of local markets and street food stalls offering delicious Thai food at a fraction of the price you’d pay in more touristy areas.
Prachuap Khiri Khan also offers a slower, more relaxed pace of life. It’s a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of big city life and enjoy a more laid-back lifestyle. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the community is tight-knit. There are also plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture, whether it’s by learning Thai, participating in local festivals, or volunteering at local organizations like the Prachuap Animal Welfare Society (PAWS).
Cons of Living in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand
While there are many advantages to living in Prachuap Khiri Khan, there are also some downsides to consider. One of the main disadvantages is the language barrier. While English is spoken in tourist areas and by some locals, it’s not as widely spoken as in bigger cities or tourist hotspots. This can make everyday tasks like shopping or dealing with bureaucracy more challenging. However, this can also be seen as an opportunity to learn a new language and immerse yourself in a new culture.
Another downside is the lack of certain amenities and services. While Prachuap Khiri Khan has all the basic amenities you need, it doesn’t have the same variety or quality of services as bigger cities. For instance, healthcare facilities are limited and may not offer the same standard of care as in larger cities. If you have specific healthcare needs or require regular medical attention, this is something to consider.
While the slower pace of life is a draw for many, it can also be a disadvantage for some. If you’re used to a fast-paced city life, you might find the laid-back lifestyle in Prachuap Khiri Khan a bit too slow. There’s also less variety in terms of nightlife and entertainment options compared to bigger cities.
Lastly, while Prachuap Khiri Khan is relatively safe, like any place, it’s not completely free from crime. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist areas. It’s important to take basic safety precautions, like not leaving your belongings unattended and being aware of your surroundings.
In conclusion, Prachuap Khiri Khan offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a laid-back lifestyle. While there are some downsides to consider, many people find the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Ultimately, whether or not Prachuap Khiri Khan is the right place for you will depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle.
