Life is comfortable in Phuket, as the city has welcomed millions of tourists for a few decades. It is like a home to many foreigners, with about 115,000 out of over 400,000 people living in this province considered ex-pats from different countries of the world. The island has lots of infrastructure for the comfort of its habitants.
Are you wondering if Phuket is a nice place to live? Phuket is a good place because of the easy transportation, affordable accommodation, safety, etc. that it offers its residents. Many digital nomads, retirees, and lots more are setting down in this province.
But why are they choosing to live in Phuket? Let’s check out the reasons why Phuket is a nice place for anyone to live.
- Great weather
For lovers of sun and sea, this is the best place to live. 30 degree Celsius is the average temperature, and the humidity is relatively low too. This weather makes it easier to enjoy your stay in the province of Phuket. It can also be a great alternative for individuals that used to live in extremely cold regions.
- Many job opportunities
According to Phuket.net, teaching the English language is the fastest job to get in Phuket. The qualifications required are TEFL and TESOL. Though the pay is relatively low, starting a new life in this province would not be hard when you have a source of income. The good part is that you would not be working for lots of hours, and this enables you to look for private tutoring opportunities to add to your income.
Apart from a teaching job, if you are skilled and have good work experience, you can quickly get other local jobs. There is a lot of demand for ICT-related skills in the province.
If you want to start a business, the laws here permit foreigners to hold 100% ownership of certain businesses, such as exporting goods and manufacturing items. Forming a private limited company as an ex-pat in Phuket is always advisable because it allows separation between management and investors.
- Transportation
Before settling down in a place, the transport systems must be considered. Transportation can hardly pose a problem for you in Phuket. The city has an international airport called Phuket International Airport with a new world-class terminal.
Scooters are the best means of transport for short trips. You can buy or rent a car if you are going for long trips, but make sure you have an international driving permit. Taxis, tuk-tuks, and songthaews are also available for commuters.
It is a pity that Phuket does not have a direct rail service. So, you may have to make use of Phun Phin railway station, which is the closest train station.
- Various accommodation options
In terms of accommodation, Thailand is a nice place to live in. The houses in Phuket and other locations come in different forms and sizes. You can get most accommodation options through property agencies. It will save you time, but the commission of the agent will increase your rent.
If you have a location in mind, you can check if there is any available accommodation. In case you find one, contact the agent in charge of the property. You can make use of the internet to aid your search for properties available for rent in Phuket.
- Healthcare in Phuket
The healthcare system here is really good, as ex-pats and locals can get quality healthcare service. Although medical doctors are not as many as they should be, they’re enough to take care of your health needs. First-class medical facilities are available in hospitals with highly trained medical practitioners. Private medical care in this province is affordable and reliable. Phuket has one of the best hospitals in Thailand called Phuket International Hospital.
As a foreigner, make sure you arrange for private health insurance before relocating to this place for easy access to healthcare. You can pick from any of the local and international health insurance companies here.
- Amazing food
food to eat in Phuket is not a big deal at all. What you’ll eat depends on the type of food and the kind of restaurant you choose to visit. You will find Thai food such as Tom Yum Kung and Pad Thai at an affordable price if you visit the locals.
With 60 baht (less than 2 USD), you will eat basic Thai food at the local restaurants. As a couple, a dinner with a couple of beers will simply cost you 800-1,200 baht (23-35 USD) if your order is simple.
There are also high-class restaurants that offer delicious intercontinental dishes. However, such food can be quite expensive,
- Affordable cost of living
Phuket is rated as one of the most expensive provinces in the whole of Thailand but the cost of living is low compared to London, New York, etc. Despite being expats’ destination, the city’s affordable cost of living keeps attracting tourists. You can live on a budget here while still enjoying the best that the city has to offer. Though your lifestyle determines your living expenses, you do not have to spend much to enjoy your stay.
- Networking
Thinking of networking, Phuket is simply one of the best places to reside in Thailand. Most people here are friendly, and you can quickly get help from a total stranger. This is why people easily feel at home in Phuket.
As a wonderful place for ex-pats, there is a community for ex-pats that enables you to easily network with the locals and other ex-pats on the island. It does not matter whether you are a retiree or you are starting a whole new life, Phuket is a welcoming place.
- Safety
The safety of lives and properties in Phuket is relatively okay. Although you may experience petty crimes, the place is generally free of violence. Also, there’s no fear of natural disasters or political instability.
Like in other places, you’re advised to avoid areas with a violent history. Also, you may want to avoid dark places as criminals tend to operate there.
In a nutshell, Phuket is a nice place to live. There is an assurance of safety, quality healthcare service, transport system, etc. to make you enjoy your stay.
