Phuket is a tourist trap
Who says it: Those who got trapped.
Patong and the west coast can be tourist traps, yet most teachers don’t live in these areas and don’t deal with the same hassles as those who are on holiday. Once equipped with transportation and attire that doesn’t scream tourist, the tailors and touts seem to disappear. Prices for clothing, food and other everyday goods are also much more reasonable outside the holiday havens.
Phuket lacks culture
Who says it: Uniformed culture vultures.
Phuket’s culture abounds and this has been well documented. Parts of Phuket Town inundate the eye with its history and there’s no shortage of festivals throughout the year. Thalang, Kathu, and most of the east coast house an intriguing mix of Thai Muslim and Thai Chinese residents who literally exist side-by-side. Phuket’s Baba community and Chao Leah (sea gypsy) villages help to round out the island’s cornucopia of culture.
Phuket has also attracted teachers from around the world and they’re able to enjoy social gatherings where a dozen or more nationalities are represented. Thais are often present and the patchwork of people can make for a fascinating exchange of ideas and experiences – no exaggeration.
Phuket is too expensive
Who says it: Those who expect deals and offers on a platter.
Resourceful teachers routinely find single dwelling units that offer good value. They also find furnished, yet affordable housing to share with a friend for as low as B5,000 a month per person. As for food, most long-term expats will agree: the best food is found at basic restaurants with plastic chairs, lacklustre lighting and cobwebs in every corner. Eat cheap local food during the week and you can afford to splurge on some tasty international cuisine at the weekend.
It rains all day
Who says it: Weather forecasters.
People hear “monsoon season” and immediately picture a deluge – understandable, but inaccurate. A few low pressure fronts roll in, bringing some dire days, but outside of that it usually rains in the morning and in the evening. On the plus side, Phuket’s back-to-back monsoon season brings welcome respite from the heat and plenty of sunny days.
Teach by the beach
Who says it: Dodgy TEFL courses.
Let’s get one thing straight: The best teaching jobs aren’t near the beach. Most schools are located inland, and if teachers are wise they live as close to their employer as possible, so as to lessen time on the road and the risks that come with it. On days off, they take slightly longer drives to the beach and that’s more than most can say.
Phuket isn’t perfect and it’s not for everyone. Come and go if you want, but don’t let the myths put you off before you see it for yourself.