Happy New Year! And what a year 2020 was! I think everyone was glad to leave it behind and start fresh. New year, new beginnings, right? After a quiet New Year’s Eve in Bangkok, I headed south to spend a few months in Phuket. Leaving my pretty dresses behind, I was looking forward to a more relaxed beach life.
Especially as Bangkok was beginning to lock down again because of a new COVID-19 outbreak.
Apart from its name, however, I didn’t really know much about Phuket. Where should I go? Where should I stay? It was time to explore…
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Phuket – Nai Harn and Rawai Beach
Sitting south, Phuket is one of the largest Islands in Thailand. 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 area is very idyllic.
Afterword: And who would have thought that Phuket will become my home for over four years! Read all my adventures here!
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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.
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What to do in Nai Harn?
From stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) at Yanui Beach to my morning runs in Nai Harn and along Rawai Beach, my everyday routine is pretty much set. Whether it is walking up and down the hills to find the best views or simply running around Nai Harn Lake, being active outdoors is certainly a priority for many people here. The vibe is great! I am not sure how much the lack of tourists contributes to it, though. For now, it’s perfect.
This makes living in Nai Harn and Rawai Beach very relaxing. There is no rush, the local Thai food is great, and everyone is happy and easy-going. I have already met many other long-term expats from England, Australia and Canada.
I also love cruising around on my little scooter to get from A to B. Although I am still very much a beginner.
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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 There is still so much to explore in Phuket. I haven’t walked around Phuket Town yet, visited the Big Buddha or said hello to the elephants living just around the corner. But I have time.
I briefly visited Kata Beach, which seemed to have more luxurious villas. Not really my scene, but the beach was certainly picturesque. Karon and Patong, however, were completely shut down. Shops, restaurants and hotels were literally barricaded, with no sign of reopening anytime soon. Who knows when, really? Crazy times!
For now, I am happy exactly where I am. Cruising around Nai Harn and Rawai Beach, spending time with the locals and enjoying my outdoor activities.
The 32 islands surrounding Phuket will have to wait as well. I think most of them are still closed anyway. And so far, there is certainly no need to return to Bangkok. Let’s stay in Phuket for a while. Why not?
(post 153)
