Well, after more than six months in Thailand, including four months in Phuket, the time has come to say goodbye. I still can’t believe I have booked my ticket back to Europe. I feel nervous and excited at the same time. Six months in one country is a long time for me these days, so I am looking forward to a change, especially being able to go cycling and hiking again.
That said, I really love it here in Phuket, especially around Nai Harn Beach and Rawai. Did I mention that already? During my time in Phuket and Nai Harn, I have met more amazing people than anywhere else on my travels. In particular, I have met many long-term expats with fascinating stories to tell. There is such a great community here, with a relaxed atmosphere that makes it a fun place to live.
I only returned to Bangkok once, when I had to visit the embassy to renew my passport. Otherwise, I haven’t missed the big city, the crowds or the traffic. And as for shopping? I’ll leave that 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 blog about it – Happy New Year from Phuket? 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.
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!
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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 – Back to Germany amid Corona Virus.
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.
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