Kamala has long been a popular destination for wealthy foreigners seeking a peaceful lifestyle, and it continues to maintain its reputation as a tranquil corner of Phuket. It is located in the Kathu district, but it has a similar vibe to Bang Tao, albeit in a more condensed form. Kamala is surrounded by lush mountains to the north, east, and south, while the western part features a charming bay with a beautiful sandy beach.
Kathu has historically been home to wealthy Thais and first-generation expats with above-average income. Its convenient transport links and comfortable housing, surrounded by golf courses, continue to attract foreigners. In the past, Kathu only had private houses, but in recent years, modern multi-family condominiums have been added to the housing stock, aimed at a younger clientele and more affordable prices.
Laguna Phuket is situated in Choeng Thale sub-district of Phuket province, in the central part of the island. It overlooks Bang Tao and Layan beaches to the west. The Laguna Phuket integrated resort complex was constructed around 30 years ago and has since become a symbol of luxury living in Phuket.
Rawai is situated in the southernmost part of the island, a popular destination for expatriates from various countries. Travellers are drawn to Rawai's multicultural community and way of life, which offers more than just a holiday in Phuket. Additionally, the stunning Nai Harn beach nearby is widely regarded as one of the island's main attractions.
Chalong is situated to the north of Rawai and has an even more expat-oriented lifestyle than its southern neighbour. The closest beach for Chalong residents is Nai Harn, which even Rawai residents access by car or motorcycle rather than on foot.
Cape Panwa is located in the Wichit region, spanning from Kathu in the west to the cape of the same name on the east coast. It is an ideal destination for a peaceful and secluded holiday without the need for frequent travel.
Patong is widely recognised as the main centre of nightlife in Phuket and a symbol of Thai tourism. During the day, it is a quiet town on the west coast, nestled around a bay. As night falls, Patong transforms into a bustling hub of entertainment, with bars, cafes, tourist shops, massage parlours, and barbershops opening up on every corner.
Thailand has an important place in the Asia-Pacific region. In the past, the economic growth in the area was associated with the rise of so-called Asian Tigers: Singapore, Hong Kong, South Korea and Taiwan. While the development potential of the former four countries has already reached its limits, Thailand still has the prospects for the future growth.
The trend of Chinese and Western investors looking to buy property in Thailand has been steadily increasing in 2022. Investor demand has focused on the country's resort areas, particularly Phuket, but the purpose of purchase has changed from leisure to investment.
Thailand is rightly regarded as one of the best countries for property investment in Asia, and an excellent alternative to Europe and the Middle East. The Thai market offers investments without the extremes of gambling with a high jackpot and risk, or purely protective investments where the millions of pounds invested will certainly not burn out, but the returns won't be substantial.
Over the past few decades, Thailand has become a reference of a paradise for living and leisure. White sandy beaches, the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, tropical flora and incredible natural landscapes together with the ancient history and friendly temper of the locals are contrasted with the daily life of the residents of the northern countries.
A quality education is a decisive factor for foreign families considering a move to another country. In this regard, Phuket is the only tropical resort in Thailand suitable for extended family stays.
Official data released by the Government Housing Bank (GHB) in June 2023 indicates a significant increase in the purchase of apartments in Thailand by foreigners in Q1 2023. Compared to Q1 2022, there has been a 79.2% rise in the number of units bought, with a total of 3,775 apartments purchased.
"Thai banks do not provide mortgage loans to non-residents. What’s more, foreign nationals can´t get a bank loan for any purpose. There is only one legal way for them to finance their property purchases in the country, which is through the MBK Group," said Nikita Shcherbina, Director of the East-West Realtors Group, Tranio's partner in Thailand.
Resort investment properties in Phuket can generate high rental yields of 5–9% per annum for their owners.