Happy New Year! What a year last year was! I believe everybody is glad to have 2020 behind us, ready to start a new year. New Year, new beginnings, right? So, after a quiet NYE in Bangkok, I was heading south to spend a few months in Phuket. Leaving my pretty dresses behind, I was looking forward to some relaxing beach life.
Especially since Bangkok started to lock down again, due to a new virus outbreak.
Besides the actual name, however, I didn’t really know much about Phuket and the island. Where to go? Where to stay? It was time to explore …
Happy New Year!
Phuket – Nai Harn and Rawai Beach
Phuket is a south province of Thailand and one of the largest Islands here. Surrounded by 32 islands and crystal clear waters, it is a popular holiday destination from all over the world.
For me, it was my first time here. So, after some reading and researching, I decided to head to the most southern point of Phuket, to where the locals seem to live. To Nai Harn and Rawai Beach.
Apparently, due to the virus and no tourists, Pa Tong and Karon are pretty much shut down.
Life here in Nai Harn and Rawai Beach is very simple. From the local fishermen in Rawai, to the little food stalls and small convenience stores, everybody is busy doing their thing. With no rush and always a smile. Whether it is low tide or high tide, the whole are is very idyllic.
_______________________________
The beaches, with their crystal clear water, remind me of Noosa, and the general relaxed life style of Byron Bay. Just add the scooter to it. Which makes it more like my trip to Bali… (read here about my trip three years ago).
So, arriving in Nai Harn and Rawai Beach two weeks ago, I based myself in the stunning Calypso Garden Residences, (with the most amazing roof top pool). I felt at home pretty much straight away.
And if, after only one week, the lady in the convenience store stocks your favourite Mango ice cream just for you, you know you are a welcomed local.
_______________________________
What to do in Nai Harn?
From stand-up-paddling (SUP) in Yanui Beach, to my morning runs in Nai Harn and along Rawai Beach, my every day is routine is pretty much set. Whether it is walking up and down the hills, to get the best view, or just run around the lake in Nai Harn, being active outdoors is certainly the main focus for many. The vibe is great! I am not sure how much the lack of tourists contributes to it, though. For now, it’s perfect.
So, it makes living here in Nai Harn and Rawai Beach very relaxing. There is no rush, the local Thai food is great, everybody is happy and easy going. I have met many other long term expats (e.g. from England, Australia, Canada) already.
Furthermore, I love cruising around on my little scooter to go from A to B. Although I am still a beginner.
_______________________________
And so…
There is still lots to explore in Phuket. I haven’t walked the actual Phuket city yet, visited the Big Buddha and said hello to the Elephants, who live just around the corner. But I have time.
I briefly went to Kata Beach, which seems to have more luxurious villas. Not really me, but the beach is certainly picturesque. Karon and Pa Tong is definitely all shut. Shops and Restaurants, as well as hotels, literally barricaded, not to be open any time soon. Who knows when, really. Crazy times!
For now, I am happy to be where I am. Cruising around Nai Harn and Rawai Beach, hanging out with the locals, enjoying my outdoor activities.
The 32 islands around Phuket will have to wait as well (I think most are still closed anyway). And so far, there is certainly no need to go back to Bangkok. Let’s stay in Phuket for while! Because why not?
(post 153)
