What You Need to Know about Retiring in Phuket, Thailand

Retiring in Phuket can be a wonderful adventure for you as you embark on a new phase in your life. However, there are a few things that you should know or consider before you make that final move and begin the retirement phase of your life. This includes learning where the popular retirement destinations are, what you need to know, and what the different things to do are in your new area.

Thailand is a popular retirement destination, as well as a common tourist destination. However, there are many different provinces and areas in Thailand that may influence where you want to stay, including Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Pattaya. Phuket Island is also a popular place to retire in Thailand.

Not only does Phuket offer its own International airport, but it also has a number of quality medical facilities and hospitals that allow residents to get the care that they need. Furthermore, you will find many of the modern-day conveniences and attractions, like multiplex movie theaters, restaurants, and shopping malls that many people are accustom to having nearby them at any given time. More importantly, those who are retiring in Phuket are also given the chance to live in their own paradise, surrounded completely by water, but connected to mainland Thailand.

Anyone looking to retire in Thailand, including those retiring in Phuket will need to meet a few general requirements. These requirements often include the fact that the person is 50 years or older, in reasonable health, and received a police clearance from their home country. In addition, you must have a certain amount deposited into a Thailand bank, which proves that you meet a minimum level of income and documentation that the money came from outside the country. Once these requirements have been met, you can apply for your non-immigrant O visa from your home country and begin your retirement.

Before you make your final choice and prepare to purchase a home in the area for your retirement, the best idea is to visit each of the destinations. There, local residents will be able to tell you about retiring in Phuket and any ups or downs that you may experience. That way, you can be sure that you make the right choice the first time, which will save you many headaches over the months that it takes you to make the transition.

This is one of a series of travel articles kindly provided for us by the people at Hotels Combined. They offer an online hotel price comparison service that we use ourselves and are happy to recommend. The author, Valerie Mellema, is a freelance travel writer who has published articles about destinations all over the world.