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Originally Posted by Phukethomebuyer
I'm also very interested in the perspectives of homeowners on life in Phuket. Also, is the language barrier a difficult problem or can an English speaking person get by OK? Is it necessary to have a car? If so, what would an average used small car cost? I'm highly athletic so finding a good place to workout is important. Are there many gyms available? Is there continual stifling heat and humidity or are there possible times during the day when you can go running outside?
Thanks in advance, I'll be looking forward to learning more from your experiences.
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English speaking person can get by ok on Phuket especially in the tourist areas of west coast.. Of course as you go north it gets more important but in general Phuklet is pretty easy.. this is not like moving up to Nong Khai or somewhere in the sticks..
Do you need a car.. That too personal.. and also depends on where you live.. I know many people without one but I keep one just to run to the supermarkets and around the island.. Also if you live in Ao Po or somewhere a little more in the boonies you would have more of a need..
Cars here second hand are very expensive compared to Europe or us.. Finding a relaible car for a couple of grand is not likely.. even a old banger of a car generally gets about 100k.. Lots of reasons but mainly not enough cars to satisfy the low end of the market and Thais intense desire not to lose money on anything.. I knew a Thai guy who bought a car for 100k kept it for 2 - 2.5 years and then went to sell it for 100k.. The idea of depreciation did not seem to occur to him.. A small runabout car in clean condition can be found in the 200 - 300 category for relaible and usable of not cool.. a quality pickup starts at around 300 and up and 4x4's at about 400 - 450 and up.. New prices are apealing when you see cars only a little cheaper than new 2 years old and with km's on them..
Gyms are around in Patong and I assume Phuket town and other west coast areas.. Yes its hot but running will help you alcimatise and adjust to the heat (I guess.. been many years now and I am still waiting)..