Phuket, Thailand
Last updated on Apr 16, 2023
Summary: People describe Phuket, Thailand as a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant nightlife. Expats love the laid-back atmosphere, the friendly locals, and the abundance of activities and attractions. The weather in Phuket is typically hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 75-90 degrees Fahrenheit (24-32 degrees Celsius). The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000-$2,000 USD per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment is around $400-$800 USD per month, and a two bedroom apartment is around $600-$1,200 USD per month. The approximate population of Phuket is around 400,000 people.
What are the pros and cons of living in Phuket?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Phuket responded:
"Expats and digital nomads generally like living in Phuket, for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and affordable cost of living. They appreciate the friendly and welcoming locals, as well as the vibrant expat community that makes it easy to make friends and socialize. The delicious Thai cuisine, diverse range of restaurants, and bustling street food scene are also major draws for expats and digital nomads. Phuket's well-developed infrastructure, including reliable internet, modern shopping malls, and good healthcare facilities, make it a comfortable place to live and work remotely. The island also offers a wide range of recreational activities, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking, and yoga, which appeal to those seeking an active and healthy lifestyle. However, there are also some aspects of living in Phuket that expats and digital nomads may dislike. The traffic can be chaotic, and the public transportation options are limited, making it necessary to rent a scooter or car to get around. The high number of tourists can make some areas feel overcrowded, particularly during the peak travel season. Additionally, while the cost of living is generally affordable, some expats may find that prices in Phuket are higher than in other parts of Thailand, particularly for housing and certain imported goods. Finally, the language barrier can be challenging for those who do not speak Thai, although many locals do speak some English, especially in tourist areas," said one expat in living in Phuket, Thailand.
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What type of social life can someone expect in Phuket?
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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- What are medical services in Phuket like?
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