To anyone who has visited Phuket or is a recent transplant, the idea of getting bored might sound absurd. After all, the island seems to have it all: radiant nightlife from seedy nightclubs to elegant jazz bars, bustling urban areas and mountain trails, bohemian artsy hangouts, or glitzy beach clubs. However, visiting is one thing, but living here long-term is a completely different experience. Once the novelty wears off, so many find themselves slipping into a routine of staying home, doing the same activities, and feeling like they’ve done it all. But Phuket is far more layered than it appears on the surface, and if you get out there and keep an open mind, you’ll never run out of things to do.
Explore
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This may seem obvious, and it’s common for newcomers to wander around a bit, but there truly is a lot to explore on the island. There is a ton of diversity from one district to another and amongst the many mu baans (neighborhoods). Spend some time poking around the east coast, where side streets can lead to colorful villages or peaceful mangroves. Leaving the car or bike behind, follow the fishermen’s trails to rarely visited coves, headlands, and unique views. Ever been to Koh Sire? Coconut Island? Laem Kat? There are endless adventures to be had.
Island Hobbies
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One of the best ways to stay engaged is to delve into a hobby that stirs a passion in you. There are the obvious ones that are popular, such as fitness sports like Muay Thai or joining one of Phuket’s countless gyms. Even with sports, there’s a ton of variety – football, basketball, beach volleyball, badminton, cricket, rugby, water polo, and even ice hockey are played. If the ocean beckons, freediving, spearfishing, paddleboarding, and surfing are all part of the lifestyle here. Crewing on a racing sailboat, learning an instrument, joining open mic nights, or joining a cycling team are all possibilities.
Join Community Events
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Phuket’s social calendar is far busier than many residents initially realize. From weekend markets and live music nights to art shows, beach cleanups, comedy sets, and business meetups, there’s something happening almost every night somewhere on the island. Check out Facebook groups, events calendars, or expat networking sites to find out what’s happening and who’s getting involved. One thing that tends to plague long-term expats is a feeling of isolation, but staying connected to the community will help make you feel like you belong.
Another way to feel more a part of the community? Learn Thai! It’s easy to be lazy learning Thai in Phuket since it’s a tourist hotspot, so many locals speak English. Find a teacher or join group classes, it’s fun, good for your brain, and it opens up a whole new world.
Break Out of the Routine
Repetition can lead to boredom comes from repetition, not from lack of options. Try switching up your routine – new gym, new cafe to work from, new beach for your morning walk, new restaurant in a different part of the island. Even small changes can make Phuket feel brand new again. Or maybe the break in routine you really need is to leave Phuket. There are plenty of cheap direct flights all over Asia. Go spend a couple of weeks somewhere else, and chances are you’ll be happy to return home to Phuket.
