Well, after over 6 months in Thailand and 4 of them in Phuket, the time has come to say goodbye. I can’t believe I booked my ticket back to Europe. I am nervous and excited at the same time. But, 6 months in one country is a long time for me these days, so, I am kind of looking forward to some change. Especially to cycling and hiking again.
That said, I really love it here in Phuket, in the little province of Nai Harn/Rawai. Did I say that already? During my time here I have met more amazing people than anywhere else since travelling. Especially expat locals with lots of stories to tell. It is such a great community here, with a relaxed vibe, it is fun being here.
I made it back to Bangkok only once, when I had to go to the embassy to renew my passport. Otherwise, I don’t miss the big city, the crowds and the traffic. And as for the shopping, I leave that one for Europe.
So, what did I do in Nai Harn Phuket?
Well, as you already know, there was diving, stand up paddling (SUP) and lots of relaxing. But, most of all, lots of massages. I will miss my Thai massage ladies and their magic hands!
I have made short trips to Phuket town only a few times, and stayed within the 10km Nai Harn radius otherwise. Kata Beach and Patong were still pretty much closed during my stay here, and there is no need to go further north of Phuket. I have everything I need in Nai Harn/Rawai/Chalong. Not to mention that it is the prettiest part of them all. Well, for me anyway. (Did you read my previous blogs about it?) Furthermore, I admit, it was great to be here without the crowds and the tourists.
I have become a local amongst the locals.
During my time in Phuket Nai Harn, the area slowly came back to life again (not for overseas tourists of course).
Shops and restaurants were renovated, refreshed and reopened. The locals full of hope for some income. But, 2021 is still a crazy year and so, as I am about to leave, everything starts to shut down again. Even my massage ladies have to stop working again. I really hope, for all my new friends here, it will get better towards the end of the year!
And so… Phuket and Nai Harn summary
So, with the virus restrictions returning and the rainy season starting here in Phuket, I will take on another travel journey amid Corona Virus (yes, we are still in a pandemic), back to Germany. (Funnily I escaped Spain back to Germany last year at the same time. Read here.)
For now, let’s enjoy summer in Europe and come back to Phuket later in the year again. Because there is no doubt I will be back. Sometime this year maybe? And as for my next adventure, I guess you will hear from me from Europe. Fingers crossed!
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