Moving to Phuket is an exciting prospect, but many newcomers make the same avoidable mistakes during their first year on the island. That first year might feel like a “honeymoon phase” where everything is new and exciting. Unfortunately, while in awe of their new situation, many are distracted into making uninformed or hasty decisions. However, more often than not, Phuket transplants make many of the same mistakes, and there’s no one to blame; it’s part of the process of adaptation. That being said, doing a bit of homework ahead of time can help point you in the right direction, potentially saving you time, money, and even pain.
One of the biggest mistakes that is becoming increasingly common is underestimating the cost of living. Long gone are the days when Phuket was a “cheap” place to travel or live. It can still be quite affordable compared to many Western countries, but a variety of factors have inflated the cost of living considerably in recent years. Living like a local may allow you to get by on a small budget, but many expats long for imported goods, have kids who they wish to send to international schools, or prefer Western-style housing, which all quickly adds up. Additionally, things like visa expenses, trips abroad to visit family, and preparing for unforeseen circumstances all need to be considered.
Another frequent misstep is choosing the wrong location to live. Phuket is quite varied, and it can be wise to explore the island thoroughly before settling into a long-term lease or purchasing a property. Living in a tourist zone might seem appealing at first, but constant crowds and noise can become exhausting, and there will be less of a community vibe. On the other hand, being too far from the action may leave you feeling isolated. Take your time, make friends, and look for advice and firsthand experience before making a decision.
Visa misunderstandings are another all-too-common issue. Just like the days of living large on next to nothing are in the past, so too are any chances of living here long-term on a tourist visa. Thailand has gotten increasingly strict on visa regulations, and it’s never been more important to thoroughly understand your visa options, requirements, and limitations. Whether you’re considering a retirement visa, an education visa, or a business visa, find official documentation of its requirements or visit Phuket Immigration for certainty.
Insurance is another overlooked detail that’s an important aspect of life in Phuket. Most expats end up driving a car or scooter here, and while it’s legal to drive under your home country’s license with an accompanying international driving permit, this is only valid for 90 days. The catch is that if you are in an accident, it’s unlikely your insurance will cover you without a valid license. Next is health insurance. If you have insurance in your home country, does it cover you in Thailand? While Phuket has well-regarded private hospitals, medical care can be expensive without coverage. Some expats assume they won’t need insurance or rely on travel policies that aren’t designed for long-term stays. Dig up that policy paperwork and check the fine print – be proactive, don’t wait until something happens to find out you’re not covered.
Speaking of driving and health insurance, sadly, another common mistake is ending up in a road accident. Because of traffic and narrow roads, many people opt to drive scooters, which can be very practical. However, expats often have little experience operating motorbikes and are unfamiliar with the local driving styles. Thailand is consistently one of the most dangerous countries in the world to drive in based on accident, injury, and death statistics. Road conditions can be poor, animals or other obstacles are common, there are many inexperienced or reckless riders that drive unsafely, and, especially at night, people often drive drunk. Be careful and proceed with caution to avoid becoming a statistic.
