Those who visit Phuket, get captivated by its charm, and decide to relocate here, you’re not alone. For half a century, a select few travelers would give in to temptation and make the plunge to start a life in Phuket. As many long-time expats will confirm, life on the island can be idyllic in many ways. However, like life anywhere, there are aspects of life that range from mild inconveniences to downright infuriating. Phuket is no exception, and daily life here is not without its challenges. That being said, a bit of understanding, local insights, and preparation can go a long way toward avoiding unnecessary headaches in Phuket.

Travel Smart

The source of nagging frustrations in Phuket may evolve over time, but nowadays most people can agree that getting around the island is a near-constant battle. The traffic situation has reached fever pitch in recent years due to a patchwork and small road system, poor planning, a burgeoning population, widespread construction projects, and the oversized vehicles that go with them. While the island is relatively small, getting around isn’t always straightforward. Taxis and tuk-tuks are plentiful in some areas but can be expensive, especially in tourist hotspots like Patong and Kata. Ride-hailing apps such as Grab are increasingly popular, adding simplicity and eliminating the possibility of being scammed by a private taxi.

When possible, avoiding the busiest times of day can go a long way to maintaining sanity. The busiest times are 7:30-9 am and from 4-7:30 pm, especially near schools where parents dropping off and picking up kids clog up the roads. 

Know Visa and Immigration Rules

Familiarizing yourself with these requirements is crucial, as failing to do so can get you deported and blacklisted. Immigration rules may vary depending on your home country, and they can change, so keep up with the latest requirements or hire a local visa agent for help. Make physical and digital copies of important documents like your passport and visa pages.

Certain visa types require you to check in with immigration every 90 days. While it may seem arbitrary, it’s mandatory, and there is a fine if you miss the window, which is 15 days before to one week after the 90-day date. A drive-through window at Phuket Town Immigration and the ability to do the check-in online make it fairly painless. 

Learn and Follow the Law

Although law enforcement is fairly lax compared to other countries, it does still exist, and getting caught on the wrong side of the law in Phuket isn’t ideal. Many people experience a run-in with the local police at traffic checkpoints. Typically, the sole purpose of these is to fine tourists for operating a scooter without a helmet, a license, or both. The rule is that you can drive here with a foreign license with an accompanying international driving permit (IDP) for 90 days, after which you must get a Thai license. Also of note, you cannot operate a scooter/motorbike in Thailand unless you have a motorcycle license and an IDP from your home country.

Take a few minutes to research Thai laws, as there might be some that you wouldn’t expect. For instance, vapes and vaping are illegal, as well as smoking of any kind on the beach. Certain sunscreen chemicals are banned in Thai Marine Parks with hefty fines. And a new, recently announced law states that consuming alcohol during prohibited times in specific situations is now enforceable.