Hi Midknight,
sorry but I cannot give you updated information on Koh Samuii but the last time I was there (I think 2001) I didnt like it as much as the first time in 1995. Reliable internet there is definetely a problem, so trading is probably a hard to impossible thing.
Information on renting or buying property I can give you only for Phuket since thats the place where I live. There are 2 websites I want to recommend you for getting a picture.
http://www.houseinphuket.com/
http://phuketrentallistings.com/BasePage.php?Content=Home&PHPSESSID=bf6e971c009b473be4424e5ab5fd16b2
Social life and entertainment:
Well, living here is quite comfortable though by time local people get to know you resulting in earning less smiles than a 2-weeks tourist if you know what I mean.
My circle of friends is mostly reduced to expats and a limited number of Thais I have regular contact with. Nevertheless its an amazing tropic place with awesome beaches and nice climate around the whole year. Food, sightseeing, watersports, golf, nightlife, festivals, all a big yes.
Dogs, if your question was serious, are not on the menu plan though I wouldnt recommend to bring one.
If thats going too off topic and you wanna know more or specific details send me a PM and I will try to answer.
By the way I am in Texas now, staying for a week. First time to the US and 3 hours "welcome interview" at the immigration in Houston. I can understand now what you guys mean when looking for a second or alternative base.
Cheers
Quote from MidKnight:
Pita,
Seeing as you are on-site
maybe I can ask you a few more questions.
- Have you heard much about Koh Samui in terms of Internet and lifestyle?
- Do you remember what it was like when you first moved there? Was it a big culture shock? What did you not like and/or took a while for you to get used to?
- What would you consider reasonable prices for renting? or for buying?
- How is life for you socially? Do you mostly hang out with other expats? Are the thai people welcoming to you? Do you remember what this was like when you first moved there? (I have no idea what is like there, sorry for the maybe silly questions)
- Any idea if you can bring your dog? Will they want to eat it? :eek:
I would be very keen to move from NZ to Thailand. I trade Asian markets already so it would be a perfect move with a better climate and even better trading hours.
Thanks in advance for your reply.
Best regards,
MK