Holiday renters often look for those rentals that are close to the beaches on the island, while those looking for a long-term residence will probably want to take proximity to their work-place, schools and shopping centers. You will often find the best value rentals away from the main beaches, and in these locations you will also be able to avoid the main tourist areas. Living outside the main tourist areas however, may require some experience - You will not have the same density of western-comforts and conveniences. You may also need your own transport to get around.
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Bangtao
Chalong
East
Kamala
Karon
Kata
Kathu
Patong
North
Phuket City
Rawai
Talang
Bang Tao is a large open bay with one of Phuket's longest beaches. The Laguna Phuket complex, containing five luxury hotels and an 18-hole golf course, dominates a large area of Bang Tao. However, it is not difficult to find a quiet spot to enjoy the crystal clear water and stunning white sand. There are a number of shops, restaurants and bars near the entrance to Laguna Phuket, as well as those within the resort complex. The nearby town of Cherng Talay has a few shops as well as a fresh market.
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A heavily populated area of Phuket, Chalong extends from the southern end of Phuket Town down towards Rawai. Being close to Phuket Town makes Chalong a favourite for locals as well as expats, with an abundance of housing options available. Chalong Bay does not have a great beach for swimming due to the muddy bottom and large number of boats moored here.
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East coast of the island includes all areas north of Phuket on the coastline. With a great view of the Phang-Nga bay, this area is relatively tranquil, and includes a lot of high-end property. You will also find most of the boat marina locations on this part of the island.
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Just north of the lights and noise of Patong lies Kamala Beach, a quieter stretch of sand with more relaxed feel. With its quieter pace, over the last few years, Kamala has become a favoured spot for retirees and other longer-term visitors staying in small hotels, villas and apartment rentals nestled around the village. On the headland to the south, are a number of luxury villa developments, with great views of Kamala Bay and beyond along its winding road.
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One of the larger beaches in Phuket, Karon has plenty to offer the holiday visitor as well as the long-term resident. Karon has a lot of entertainment areas, including restaurants and bars for those that enjoy the nightlife, and being close to Patong expands the choices even more. While it's a fast-growing area, Karon is nicely spread out and rarely feels crowded.
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The pleasant bay of Kata entices and charms many visitors with its white sands and clear waters. Very popular with families, Kata is an all round favourite due to its spectacular palm-lined beach, great restaurants, lively but not raucous nightlife and varied accommodation options - all close to the beach.There are quite a few shops, restaurants and bars around Kata Centre and between Kata Yai and Kata Noi. Kata is perhaps the best compromise between the hectic pace of Patong and some of the quieter beaches on Phuket.
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Kathu is located in the middle of the island, between Patong to the west and Phuket City to the east. It's convenient location, near shopping malls, schools, business and beaches, makes it an ideal location for many long-term rentals. Kathu is a relatively large area, where you can find private homes away from hustle of the main beach locations.
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North of the island includes several peaceful beach areas: Nai Thon, Nai Yang and Mai Khao, which are relatively quiet, and even undeveloped in some places. You won't find a lot of nightlife or shopping in these locations, but they make good alternatives to the hustle and bustle of the beaches further south. All these beaches are close to Phuket International Airport, and also close to Sarasin bridge which connects Phuket to mainland Thailand.
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Patong is the most famous beach resort on Phuket. With its wide variety of activities and nightlife, Patong is an ideal place to party and play. By night the town has a bustling nightlife which includes literally hundreds of restaurants, chic lounge bars, beer bars and of course discos. The nightlife is centered around Soi Bangla (Bangla Road) however there are also quiet parts of town.
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The bustling, administrative centre of Phuket is often overlooked in favor of the beaches, but there's a lot to see and do in Phuket City. As a living, breathing Thai city, it is not specifically tailored to tourists as other areas of the island. However, having been recently upgraded to city status, Phuket City features an exciting mix of old and new, simple and sophisticated, peaceful and pulsating.
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Rawai is home to the five-star resorts, Evason and Mangosteen and quite a few of Phuket's foreign expat population live in the area, lending a bohemian and laid-back flavour to the way of life there. Residential housing options are numerous in Rawai and there are plenty of great restaurants and nightlife to keep residents entertained.
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Talang, close to the main highway which crosses Phuket from north to south is ideal for those looking for a place which is centralized and easily accessible.
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