By 2005 Phuket was up and running again and little of the damage is in evidence today.  Tourists have returned in droves, and foreigners are staking out their parcel of paradise in any way they can.

 
Technically an island, Phuket is cut off from the Thai mainland by a small inlet.  Plantations cover about 60% of the island and produce rubber, palm oil and wood.  There is a thriving night life around Patong Beach, where buildings have shot out from the landscape and luxurious condominiums now dot the shoreline.

 Life for anyone who enjoys the sun, the beach, scuba diving in some of the most crystal clear waters, remote islands, fishing, water sports, golf and anything tied to living at the beach is a dream come true for those choosing to live in Phuket. An income stream from outside Thailand helps as owning a business and turning a profit is difficult for a non-Thai.  However, there are jobs available and teaching English is popular among the expat population.

The cost of living in Phuket is low.  A 3-bedroom apartment that shares a swimming pool with one other apartment rents for under $600US per month, while a 3-bedroom luxury condominium overlooking the sea and islands beyond rents for under $900US per month.

 
Travel to other Asian cities is possible via the efficient rail system, and Kuala Lumpur and Singapore are just a few hours away.  International air travel connects out of Phuket as well. 

If escaping the rat race of life as you know it and landing on a desert island is your dream, then Phuket just might satisfy your Change of Lifestyle.