Josh On The Move shares his honest assessment of Phuket in 2025, based on annual visits over four years as both a holidaymaker and digital nomad. He notes that construction is constant across the island, with new buildings, cafes, restaurants, and gyms appearing yearly. Accommodation costs have risen 15–20% year-on-year, with a one-bed apartment now around £800 per month in low season. Other costs remain stable: scooter rental at £120 per month, smoothies at 50 baht, and airport transfers at 1,000 baht. Traffic is manageable, especially in low season, and police checkpoints are common but easily navigated with a helmet and international driving permit. The biggest downside is that it feels harder to meet people compared to previous years, partly due to a large long-term Russian community. Phuket is not an authentic Thai experience but remains excellent for holidays, training, nightlife, and remote work if you know what to expect.
Key Facts
- Scooter rental for one month costs £120 (approx. $150–160).
- Airport transfer from Phuket Airport to Rawai costs 1,000 baht (approx. £22 or $30).
- A one-bed apartment in low season costs around £800 per month, up 15–20% from last year.
- Fines for riding without a helmet in Phuket have increased to 2,000 baht.
- Construction is ongoing across Phuket, with new buildings, cafes, restaurants, and gyms appearing yearly.
